Bengaluru: Mounting pressure on the Karnataka government, Karnataka BJP President Vijayendra Yediyurappa on Monday called for the resignation of Kalaburagi district in-charge minister Priyank Kharge and demanded a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the alleged harassment and subsequent suicide of Sachin Panchal.
Vijayendra accused Priyank Kharge, son of Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, of shielding individuals linked to the tragedy, asserting that Sachin faced relentless threats and coercion by members of the influential Kharge family.
He specifically named Raju Kapnur, a close associate of the family, alleging that Kapnur demanded a bribe from Sachin and, when refused, repeatedly threatened his family.
“On December 3 and again on December 15, Kapnur, along with his supporters, visited Sachin’s house and issued dire threats to the entire family,” Vijayendra alleged in a press conference here.
The BJP leader criticised the local police for their inaction, stating that Sachin’s family approached them on December 25, two days before his death, to report his disappearance and seek immediate help. However, the police allegedly delayed efforts to track his mobile phone and failed to take prompt action.
“Had the police acted immediately, Sachin’s life could have been saved. Their inaction and submission to the Kharge family’s influence in Kalaburagi directly contributed to this tragedy,” Vijayendra charged.
He also highlighted that Sachin, the primary breadwinner of the family, had left behind five sisters, educated but struggling due to their modest financial background.
Vijayendra accused Chief Minister Siddaramaiah of prioritising political survival over justice, suggesting that fear of losing his position might be influencing his inaction.
“Do not fear for your chair, Mr Siddaramaiah. Act decisively, ensure justice for this backward class family, and sack Priyank Kharge to pave the way for an unbiased investigation,” Vijayendra stated.
Vijayendra demanded protection to Sachin’s family who are facing continued threats. He also demanded ₹1 crore in financial compensation and a government job for a family member to support the grieving and financially vulnerable family.
The case has sparked intense political debate in Karnataka, with the BJP accusing the Congress government of systemic failures and shielding influential figures. Vijayendra also alleged that the Kharge family’s influence was obstructing justice and perpetuating fear among vulnerable communities.
As public outrage continues to grow, pressure mounts on the Siddaramaiah-led government to act decisively and address the BJP’s demands for accountability and justice.
