Bengaluru, Aug 27 (FN Bureau) Karnataka Large and Medium Industries Minister MB Patil on Monday rubbished a BJP MP’s allegation of “irregularity and nepotism” in the allotment of a Civic Amenity (CA) plot to the educational trust of AICC President Mallikarjun Kharge’s son, Rahul Kharge. Patil underscored that CA plots are designated for a broad spectrum of purposes including Research and Development (R&D) centres, technical institutes, and other civic amenities, aiming to underscore the government’s commitment to promoting educational and technical advancements. Patil’s defence came after BJP MP Lahar Singh Siroya alleged “favouritism and misuse” of power in the allotment of land to Rahul Kharge. Siroya had questioned the propriety of the land allotment on social media platform ‘X’. He raised concerns over the suitability of Rahul Kharge for such an allotment, suggesting that the deal might have been influenced by political connections rather than merit. The minister, however, vehemently countered these accusations, asserting that the land was allotted at a prescribed price with no discounts, adhering strictly to the regulations set forth by the Karnataka Industrial Areas Development Board (KIADB).
Patil emphasised that CA plots are meant for diverse uses, from skill development centres and government offices to educational institutions, all in line with the State-level Single Window Committee’s recommendations. Adding a personal touch to his defense, Patil highlighted Rahul Kharge’s qualifications as an IIT graduate and his vision of establishing a cutting-edge R&D centre. He described the plot’s allotment as a step toward enhancing Karnataka’s technological and educational landscape, rather than a case of nepotistic favoritism. In a sharp political jab, Patil also criticised the BJP for its past practices. He recalled that during the BJP’s tenure, the party had allocated 116 acres of land to Chanakya University at a mere Rs 50 crore, a deal that reportedly cost the state a staggering Rs 137 crore. This historical comparison, Patil argued, illustrated a stark contrast between the previous administration’s alleged inefficiency and the current government’s transparent and equitable approach to land allotments. Patil further noted the reforms introduced since his tenure, including a 24.10 percent reservation for Scheduled Castes in CA plot allotments, aimed at promoting inclusivity and fairness in land distribution. In response to the controversy, Priyank Kharge, Rahul Kharge’s son, took to ‘X’ to address Siroya’s criticisms. He characterised the accusations as a result of “little knowledge being dangerous,” asserting that the plot’s allotment followed all necessary procedures and was aligned with the government’s policy goals.