Political Crossfire: Shivakumar Counteracts Modi's ATM Allegations

Karnataka Deputy CM DK Shivakumar challenges PM Modi's claims of Congress using state governments as ATMs. While Modi accused Congress of financial misconduct in Karnataka, Shivakumar dismisses the remarks, demanding evidence. Meanwhile, Shivakumar campaigns in Wayanad for Priyanka Gandhi, eyeing a win in the upcoming elections.

In a heated political exchange, Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar has refuted Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent comment accusing Congress governments of acting as ATMs for the party leadership. Describing the remark as a 'lie,' Shivakumar insisted that someone had misled Modi, stating that if the Prime Minister could prove his claims, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah was prepared to resign from politics entirely. 'What more do you want?' Shivakumar challenged, speaking to reporters in Bengaluru.

PM Modi launched a vociferous attack on the Congress party while campaigning for the Bharatiya Janata Party in Maharashtra, where assembly elections are scheduled for November 20. During an election rally in Akola, Modi accused Congress of exploiting states such as Himachal Pradesh, Karnataka, and Telangana, where they are in power, for financial gain. He alleged that the party has extorted Rs 700 crores from liquor sellers in Karnataka in the guise of the Maharashtra elections, predicting further exploitation if Congress wins.

As Modi's allegations sparked political friction, several BJP leaders backed his statements, prompting counterarguments from Congress, who demanded introspection from the BJP. Amidst these developments, Shivakumar has been actively campaigning in Kerala's Wayanad, where he supports Congress candidate Priyanka Gandhi for the upcoming bypoll on November 13. Shivakumar expresses confidence in a victorious outcome, noting widespread local support from voters optimistic about Gandhi's leadership. The seat, recently vacated by Rahul Gandhi who chose to retain Raebareli in Uttar Pradesh, will see its votes counted on November 23.

(With inputs from agencies.)