FIR Ordered Against Nirmala Sitharaman Sparks Political Clash in Karnataka

A Bengaluru Court's order to file an FIR against Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has led to a political dispute. BJP's Jagadish Shettar claims the complaint is instigated by the Siddaramaiah government, while Congress leaders Priyank Kharge and Abhishek Singhvi criticize the BJP over the electoral bonds issue.

Following a Bengaluru Court's directive to file an FIR against Union Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and others for alleged extortion via electoral bonds, BJP MP Jagadish Shettar on Monday accused the Siddaramaiah government of instigating the action. Shettar questioned why the alleged aggrieved party had not filed the complaint themselves, suggesting political motivation.

Shettar stated, 'The FIR has been filed as per judicial direction. However, the police should verify if there is a prima facie case before proceeding. The complainant has made several allegations, yet no complaint from the aggrieved party exists. This complaint by a third party, driven by political motives, is improper.'

Meanwhile, Karnataka Minister Priyank Kharge criticized Sitharaman, alleging her role in the electoral bonds, which he claims are illegal and unconstitutional according to the Supreme Court. Kharge urged a thorough investigation and questioned BJP's hesitation.

Additionally, Congress MP Abhishek Manu Singhvi condemned the BJP over the FIR, describing the party's tactics as 'sinister.' Singhvi highlighted a pattern where electoral bonds ostensibly aided firms in evading enforcement by the Directorate. He called for Sitharaman's resignation over the alleged manipulative scheme.

(With inputs from agencies.)