BJP members stage protest seeking Minister Nagendra’s resignation

BJP members initiated a day-long protest in Belagavi on Monday, demanding the resignation of Minister B. Nagaendra due to corruption allegations in the Maharshi Valmiki Development Corporation during his previous tenure as a Minister in the Siddaramaiah Cabinet. The protesters marched from Kittur Channamma Circle to the Deputy Commissioner's office, accusing Chief Minister D.K.

Shivakumar of succumbing to political pressures for appointing Nagaendra for the second time, despite his history of financial misconduct. The party leaders further criticized the State government for failing to address the drought situation and delay in releasing student scholarships. MLA Abhay Patil condemned the Congress for reappointing Nagaendra, citing his involvement in misappropriation of ₹187 crore in the corporation.

Protesters vowed to continue demonstrations statewide until Nagaendra's resignation. Former MLA Sanjay Patil dubbed Chief Minister Shivakumar as the "vice-chancellor of the university of corruption," accusing him of protecting corrupt leaders such as Nagaendra and former Minister Laxmi Hebbalkar, who faced allegations of diverting funds under the Gruha Laxmi scheme.

Sanjay Patil alleged that Nagaendra utilized ill-gotten funds to finance elections and purchase luxury vehicles. Former MP Anna Saheb Jolle denounced the Congress government for its financial irresponsibility and demanded accountability, emphasizing that the State government is not only corrupt but also inefficient, as it has failed to provide timely social welfare pensions to the impoverished and disabled, and neglected proper crop loss assessment amidst the drought crisis.

Notable figures present at the protest included BJP district president Subhash Patil and other former MLAs, highlighting the widespread discontent within the party over the Minister's continued appointment.