Bengaluru, Sept. 21 -- Karnataka Excise Minister K M Shivalinge Gowda has triggered a political controversy over his remarks at a public grievance meeting in Sakleshpur, where comments on giving money to officials were interpreted by the Opposition as an endorsement of bribery.
The controversy erupted during a 'Praja Seva Andolana' programme in Sakleshpur in Hassan district, when members of the public complained about officials allegedly demanding money to get their work done.
Responding to a query from a member of the public, Gowda said officials would perform their duties and remarked that whatever people wanted to offer could be given "respectfully", while adding that nobody should forcibly demand money.
The remarks immediately drew a...