BJP MLAs clash with Minister Khader over corruption allegations at Mangaluru KDP meeting

Mangalore Today News Network

Mangaluru, Sep 16, 2026: A heated exchange took place during the Dakshina Kannada KDP meeting on Monday as BJP legislators confronted district in-charge minister and Urban Development and Housing Minister U.T. Khader over corruption allegations raised by Puttur MLA Ashok Rai against officials of the Karnataka Rural Infrastructure Development Limited (KRDL).

The allegations came up for discussion during the meeting, with BJP legislators questioning Khader about the action taken so far and seeking details about the status of the inquiry.

The BJP members also questioned whether Ashok Rai’s remarks had been dismissed on the grounds of his alleged lack of experience and whether the allegations were being taken seriously.

Khader urged the members to focus on important issues concerning the district. He also objected to the manner in which some issues were raised and reprimanded BJP MLA Bharat Shetty, asking him not to engage in what he described as “childish behaviour.”

His remarks drew strong opposition from the BJP legislators, who questioned how corruption allegations could be described as childish behaviour.

Bharat Shetty strongly objected to Khader’s remarks and insisted that allegations of corruption must be taken seriously and thoroughly investigated.

A verbal exchange also took place between BJP legislators and Congress MLC Ivan D’Souza during the discussion.

Responding to the questions, Khader said the BJP members had raised the issue appropriately and confirmed that an inquiry was already underway.

He said the authorities were examining the source of the information and stressed that action could not be taken against officials solely on the basis of statements or allegations.

“Action cannot be taken against good officers without conducting an inquiry,” Khader said, adding that the facts would have to be established through the investigation.

Khader also clarified that he had not directly awarded any work to KRDL so far.

“Whether the MLA’s statement is wrong or the officials’ statement is wrong will be determined through the investigation,” he said.

He further directed the Deputy Commissioner to ensure that the allegations raised by Ashok Rai were investigated at the highest level and that appropriate action was taken based on the findings.

The heated exchange between the minister and BJP legislators created a tense atmosphere during the KDP meeting.