Karnataka BJP MLA accuses RSS of ‘rampant’ corruption and control over party in leaked video

When prompted by one of the unidentified persons behind the camera, “The RSS is responsible for everything, right?”, Gowda brushes it aside but alleges that the organisation is corrupt, unlike anyone else, despite its preaching of patriotism.

Published Oct 22, 2025 | 8:26 PMUpdated Oct 22, 2025 | 10:49 PM

Tumkur Rural MLA B Suresh Gowda

Synopsis: A purported covert video has emerged showing Karnataka BJP MLA B Suresh Gowda criticising the RSS for its alleged control over the BJP and the rampant “corruption” among its leaders. In the clip, first shared by Congress MLC Hariprasad BK, Gowda is heard accusing RSS leaders in Karnataka of amassing wealth and alleging that former Chief Minister B. S. Yediyurappa paid crores of rupees to RSS figures and a Kannada newspaper to retain influence.

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MLA from Karnataka’s Tumkur Rural constituency, B Suresh Gowda, has been caught making critical remarks about the party’s ideological parent, the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), its alleged stranglehold on the BJP, and the rampant “corruption” among RSS leaders.

The purported video, seemingly shot covertly, was first posted on X by Congress leader and Karnataka MLC Hariprasad BK on Tuesday, 21 October. In it, Gowda is heard engaging in a freewheeling conversation about the party and the RSS with two others.

“Politicians will be involved in everything but the high command won’t leave them. Why did the high command throw out [Former Karnataka Chief Minister and BJP leader] BS Yediyurappa? When a strong leader doesn’t respect the high command, they would throw them out. That’s it. Remember, it’s a common phenomenon, keep in mind,” Gowda says, indicating that BJP leaders, no matter their stature, will face retribution if they revolt against the RSS’s wishes.

“It doesn’t matter how, if he revolts, and thinks he is more important, they will beat them down and throw them out. It doesn’t matter to them what happens to the party. They won’t let anyone climb the ladder. The RSS even threw out a leader like [Former Deputy Prime Minister and BJP President] Advani,” he adds.

Also Read: In big move, Karnataka suspends official for attending RSS march

‘Rampant corruption’ and Yediyurappa link

When prompted by one of the unidentified persons behind the camera, “The RSS is responsible for everything, right?”, Gowda brushes it aside but alleges that the organisation is corrupt, unlike anyone else, despite its preaching of patriotism.

“Aiyoo, let’s not even talk about it. But there is no one as corrupt as them. You should remember this. They just preach about patriotism, but they are the most corrupt fellows. Just go look at the RSS members in Karnataka and see how much money each has made,” he says in the video.

He then makes startling claims that BS Yediyurappa paid crores of rupees to various leaders and a Kannada daily newspaper.

“BS Yediyurappa is the one who paid them crores. Just ask Yediyurappa, he will tell you how much money they made. How much land he gave, how much he gave to that Hosadigantha newspaper [a Kannada daily], he usually tells us when we sit, how each of them took what. Yediyurappa has given more than 5 crores to Hosadigantha, you should know,” he adds.

When prompted, “Hosadigantha is an RSS newspaper,” Gowda responds: “It’s a mask.”

Also Read: ‘World Record’ flex gone wrong: Why Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah deleted his post on Shakti scheme

Priyank Kharge alleges ‘looting’ of development funds

Karnataka IT and BT Minister Priyank Kharge reposted the video and made further allegations that the RSS was “looting” developmental funds under the guise of being an NGO.

“Modi ji, your BJP MLA from Karnataka says that the world’s largest NGO is controlling the BJP India. He says: The BJP leaders are subservient to RSS. RSS are fake Desh Bhakts. RSS is the most corrupt organization. RSS and their sympathizers have benefited through cash or lands. Karnataka RSS is the most corrupt and powerful,” he wrote in a post on X on 22 October.

“The list of RSS beneficiaries is with Sri. BSY (no wonder, they are still at the helm of affairs now). Sri. BS Yediyurappa paid RSS to stay in power. Sri. BSY paid RSS newspapers. RSS finished Sri. LK Advani and Sri. BSY’s political career as well. Investigations have revealed that over 100 crores of Kalyana Karnataka Development Board meant for aspirational talukas was looted by this ‘NGO’. We will expose their misdeeds soon.”

(Edited by Dese Gowda)

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