The comments made by Karnataka Excise Minister KM Sivalinge Gowda have created a huge uproar. The minister commented that there is nothing wrong with giving bribes to government officials as a courtesy if they complete their work on time. The opposition BJP criticized these comments. Sivalinge Gowda clarified that he had never said that he would definitely give bribes and that his comments were misunderstood (Karnataka minister bribery row).
Minister Shivalinge Gowda attended the 'Praja Seva Andolan' program held in Sakaleshpur, Hassan district. The controversy started while receiving complaints from the public. A person complained that officials were asking for money to get work done in government offices. Responding to this, Shivalinge Gowda said that officials will perform their duties and if someone wants to give them something, they should give it respectfully. However, he also said that officials should not forcefully take money.
Some people expressed strong objections to the minister's comments during the program itself. A farmer questioned why government officials should be given additional tips or money when they are already receiving salaries. This created a tense atmosphere in the house for some time. The minister tried to defend his comments. He explained that he did not say that officials should be bribed, but only that honest officials should be respected (Karnataka bribe controversy).
As the controversy escalated, Shivalinge Gowda gave another clarification (Shivalinge Gowda remarks). He said that he did not suggest that officials be bribed to complete the work. When a person complained that a bribe was being asked, the minister said that he only said not to give money and to respect the official. He alleged that his comments were distorted.