Karnataka minister's tip comment sparks protest and BJP backlash in Hassan
During a public-grievances meeting in Hassan, minister KM Shivalingegowda said citizens could give tips to officials, prompting outrage and a heated confrontation.
In Hassan district, minister KM Shivalingegowda sparked controversy at a Prajaseva Andolana public-grievances session by stating that giving tips or honorariums to officials for prompt service was acceptable. Farmer Puneeth, attending to raise a land dispute, publicly rebuked the comment, arguing it amounted to endorsing bribery. The dispute grew chaotic, prompting the minister to clarify that he intended to honor honest workers, not promote corruption.
Deputy commissioner KS Latha Kumari intervened, assuring that any official caught demanding bribes would face legal action. BJP MLC CT Ravi used social media to condemn the minister, recalling chief minister D K Shivakumar's anti-bribery stance and urging a retraction and apology.
Why it matters
The incident highlights public sensitivity to corruption and pressures officials to clarify anti-bribery policies.
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