Bengaluru: The recent political storm over the so-called Kappa Kanike (black offering) has once again revealed the Congress government’s double standards and moral decay. What started as a quiet political dinner hosted by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah for his cabinet colleagues has now turned into a full-blown controversy one that exposes the Congress’s murky political funding practices and its attempts to divert attention by targeting the BJP and its late leaders.
At the center of this debate stands Aishwarya Ananth Kumar, daughter of the late Union Minister Ananth Kumar, who has courageously called out Minister Priyank Kharge for his distasteful and misleading remarks. Priyank, known for making inflammatory political statements, had recently posted an old 2017 video clip showing a private conversation between BS Yediyurappa and Ananth Kumar, alleging that BJP leaders too were involved in political “black offerings.” However, Aishwarya’s firm and dignified response not only defended her father’s integrity but also reminded the Congress of its own deep-rooted corruption scandals.
The “black offering” narrative
The term Kappa Kanike historically referred to the taxes imposed by rulers and the British era levies on the people. Today, the phrase has been revived in Karnataka politics, but this time it refers to cash offerings allegedly being made by the Congress government to fund its election campaigns in Bihar. Reports emerged that during Siddaramaiah’s recent dinner meeting with ministers, discussions extended beyond food and fellowship touching upon political strategy and campaign contributions for the upcoming Bihar elections.
The BJP was quick to question this, accusing the state government of misusing taxpayer money and public resources to serve the Congress high command’s electoral interests in another state. Rather than addressing the allegation directly, Priyank Kharge resorted to deflection by reviving an old and unrelated video to smear the BJP and its respected leaders.
In response, Aishwarya Ananth Kumar lashed out at Priyank Kharge, exposing the hypocrisy behind his selective outrage. In a strongly worded post, she reminded him that Congress’s own diary scam infamously associated with massive kickbacks and bribes allegedly recorded during the Siddaramaiah government’s earlier tenure remains unexplained. “You may have forgotten, but the people haven’t,” she wrote, warning that truth has a way of resurfacing.
Shri @PriyankKharge avare, this is a new low even for you.
After your failed attempt to defame RSS you have now decided to come behind shri Ananthkumar ji, whose work for Karnataka, even your own party leaders have admired.
In case you have forgotten, Let me remind you that… https://t.co/YY4vdXZwJ2
— Aishwarya Ananthkumar (@Aishwarya_A_K) October 21, 2025
Her words resonated widely among political observers and citizens alike, who saw her response as a powerful defense of her father’s clean political image and a much-needed reminder of Congress’ own questionable history. Ananth Kumar, known for his honesty and unwavering commitment to development and good governance, was admired across party lines. Priyank Kharge’s attempt to tarnish his legacy was seen as petty and disrespectful, particularly coming from a minister in a government already battling serious corruption allegations.
The Congress’s decision to weaponize an old private video to score political points reflects a deeper insecurity. By trying to distract the public with recycled accusations, the party has inadvertently reignited memories of its own scandals from the diary scam to the cash-for-posts allegations that continue to haunt the Siddaramaiah administration.
Political analysts argue that Priyank’s attack has backfired spectacularly. Instead of putting the BJP on the defensive, it has invited sympathy for Aishwarya and renewed respect for Ananth Kumar’s legacy. Citizens see in Aishwarya’s calm yet assertive stand a new generation of leaders willing to speak truth to power without resorting to cheap theatrics.
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