Karnataka Leader of Opposition R. Ashoka has leveled serious allegations of a massive ₹2,500 crore bribery racket in the state's Excise Department.

He claims the illicit funds collected through "auctioning" liquor licences (including CL-7 bars, CL-2 shops, CL-9 clubs, and microbreweries) are being siphoned off by the Congress party to finance upcoming elections in Assam (and possibly Maharashtra).Shining Diva Fashion Latest Stylish Multilayer Gold Plated Bangle Bracelet for Women and Girls (rr14669b) Set of 6

The allegations gained momentum following the Lokayukta police's recent trap and arrest of Excise Deputy Commissioner Jagadish Nayak, who was caught accepting ₹25 lakh as advance bribe for clearing a microbrewery licence — seen as evidence of systemic corruption.

Ashoka cited an audio conversation referencing payments directed to the Excise Minister or his son.Demanding moral accountability, Ashoka insisted that Excise Minister R.B. Thimmapur resign immediately. Also Read: ‘One Village, One Election’: Karnataka Set for Historic Simultaneous Triple-Tier Panchayat Polls!?

He held Chief Minister Siddaramaiah directly responsible, accusing the government of prioritizing bribe collection over development and pushing the state toward liquor addiction while hypocritically invoking Mahatma Gandhi's name.

Ashoka warned that if the minister does not step down, the BJP will launch intense statewide protests and pursue the matter to its logical end, exposing the corruption network reaching the highest levels of the government. Also Read: Senior Freedom Fighter Bhimanna Khandre Passes Away: Karnataka's Political Pole Star Sets..!

This has sharply escalated tensions between the ruling Congress and opposition BJP in Karnataka politics.Also Read: Are Illegal Immigrants Flooding into Bengaluru? Chalavadi Narayanaswamy's Strong Demand for Railway Department Vigilance..!