Mangaluru: BJP Karkala MLA V. Sunil Kumar has hit back at former Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah over his recent comments on the need to reform and cleanse the country’s electoral system, arguing that political accountability must begin within one’s own party and administration.
Siddaramaiah has recently spoken about the growing influence of money and muscle power in elections and the need for fundamental reforms. He has also recalled a time when voters contributed money to support candidates, contrasting it with the high expenditure associated with elections today.
Sunil Kumar says reforms must begin at home
Responding to the remarks, Sunil Kumar said he agreed with the broader need for electoral reforms but questioned why similar concerns were not raised more prominently during Siddaramaiah’s periods in office.
In a social media post, the Karkala MLA said excessive election expenditure and corruption were weakening the political system and argued that any effort to bring about change must begin with political parties examining their own conduct.
He pointed to the expenditure associated with by-elections during Siddaramaiah’s tenure and said the former Chief Minister could have raised the issue more strongly at the time.
BJP MLA raises Valmiki Corporation issue
Sunil Kumar also referred to allegations surrounding the Karnataka Maharshi Valmiki Scheduled Tribes Development Corporation and questioned the political decision to bring former minister B. Nagendra back into the Cabinet.
He argued that questions surrounding corruption allegations and political morality should also form part of any discussion on accountability. These are political allegations raised by Sunil Kumar and are not presented as established findings.
Questions raised over government schemes
The Karkala MLA also questioned the implementation and financial transactions associated with the Gruha Lakshmi scheme, calling for greater transparency over the utilisation of government funds.
He further raised questions about the allocation of the Urban Development portfolio to Siddaramaiah’s son and referred to the controversy surrounding the Mysuru Urban Development Authority (MUDA).
Debate goes beyond election expenditure
Sunil Kumar said electoral reform should not be limited to controlling campaign expenditure. He argued that political parties must also address the sources of campaign funding, vested interests and accountability in governance.
He maintained that voters deserve greater transparency from political parties and candidates and said reforms would have greater credibility if political leaders were willing to examine their own decisions and records.
Siddaramaiah’s recent comments on electoral politics came amid his criticism of the growing role of money and other influences in elections. He has also announced that he will not contest the 2028 Assembly elections, while saying he would remain active in public life.