Operation Congress’ audio clip creates furore in Karnataka politics

Bengaluru, May 1: Amidst continued attempt of Bharatiya Janta Party to carry out ‘Operation Kamala’ to topple the coalition government in Karnataka, an audio tape hinting at Congress’ alleged attempt to poach BJP MLAs has created a furore in political circles.

The audio clip, which has gone viral, has been attributed to JD(S) MLA for Nagathan in Vijayapura district Devanand Chavan, who has reportedly hinted to a local over phone about the possible ‘Operation Congress’ with Home Minister M.B. Patil in the lead.

Mr. Chavan is heard saying that on being told by Mr. Patil, BJP MLA for Devarahipparagi constituency Somanagouda Patil would be the first to resign and join Congress. “He (Mr. Somanagouda) is too close to Mr. Patil. On just one call from him, the MLA will leave his party and join the Congress,” Mr. Chavan is heard saying.

Mr. Chavan has admitted before media that it was his voice and it was a personal conversation. However, when countered by the person in question, Mr. Somanagouda Patil, Mr. Chavan changed his narrative and said the clip had been morphed partially.

While Mr. Somanagouda has demanded an apology for making baseless allegations, Mr. Chavan contended that he had not spoken about politics during the conversation and probably a part of the audio clip had been edited to tarnish his image.