india π₯ Karnataka Minister's Remarks Spark Bribe Controversy
Karnataka Excise Minister KM Shivalinge Gowda faced backlash after remarks were interpreted as condoning bribes. This happened during a Praja Seva Andolana meeting in Sakleshpur, Hassan district. The controversy gained traction around September 21, 2026, involving public complaints about bribery. The opposition BJP heavily criticized the Congress government for this perceived endorsement. Gowda later clarified that he only meant to ask for respect for officials' work.