New Delhi: Karnataka Home Minister Dr. G. Parameshwara addressed the request by JDS leader and Union Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy to hand over the investigation of the alleged conspiracy against Dharmasthala’s Manjunatheswara temple to the National Investigation Agency (NIA). Parameshwara remarked, “They may have made the request. Earlier, they claimed the SIT investigation was inadequate, and now they want an NIA probe. Isn’t that also an investigation?” He questioned the justification for involving the NIA, stating that allegations of foreign funding should be handled by the central government, as the state government cannot investigate such matters.

He added that the SIT is currently probing the mass burial allegations, and if any deficiencies are found, alternative actions can be considered. However, before NIA intervention, proper justification is required, and if that happens, the state government would have no option but to comply.

On the topic of an intelligence report from two years ago regarding a conspiracy against Dharmasthala, Parameshwara sidestepped the issue, saying, “The intelligence department doesn’t fall under my purview, so I cannot comment on it. That department is under the Chief Minister’s control.”Controversy Over Islamic Conference in Bengaluru; Hindu Leader Files Complaint with Commissioner: Home Minister Responds

On GST Simplification: Speaking about the recent GST reforms announced on September 3-4, 2025, Parameshwara welcomed the simplification of tax slabs. He stated, “Essential items used by common people should have low or no GST. Previously, high GST was imposed on such items, but now it has been reduced. The central government has realized the hardships faced by people. Our party had also demanded this. We welcome the GST simplification decision, but more items need reduced GST rates.”TIMEX Classics Analog Watch for Men with Round Dial & Water Resistant Man's Wrist Watches

He acknowledged that both the central and state governments would face revenue losses due to the tax cuts, saying, “When taxes are reduced, losses are inevitable. The central government must find alternative revenue sources and focus on fund allocation and controlling unnecessary expenditure.”