Shivakumar Defends Minister Nagendra Amid Resignation Pressure

Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar defended Minister for Planning and Statistics B. Nagendra against allegations of money laundering in the Valmiki Development Corporation case. Despite reports that Nagendra offered his resignation during a meeting in Bengaluru on August 26, Shivakumar later rejected the accusations, stating there is no evidence linking the minister to seized funds and describing Nagendra as a loyal party asset.

The controversy follows pressure from a BJP-JD(S) opposition combine, which organized a 'Ballari Chalo' protest to demand the minister's removal. While initial reports indicated the Congress High Command intended to drop Nagendra to prevent political advantage, Shivakumar stated the party would decide on the matter after further discussions.

During a visit to New Delhi on August 27, Shivakumar met with Rahul Gandhi and Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge. He announced that Gandhi will soon visit Karnataka for a gig workers conference. The leaders also discussed national issues, including legislation for gig workers and school education policy. Shivakumar noted that a Cabinet sub-committee led by Minister U.T. Khader is currently working to ensure affordable and transparent education based on directions from party leadership.