The Karnataka Assembly's decision to create a new "Secretary 2" post, seemingly to accommodate Shashidhar JE, the son-in-law of Minister KH Muniyappa, has sparked controversy and backlash from the BJP, who accuse the government of misusing public resources. Despite the existing position of Vidhan Sabha Assembly secretary, the Assembly is moving forward with this new role. Sources indicate that this development followed a letter from the Speaker of the Karnataka Assembly to the Assembly's Finance Department requesting the creation of the new position and seeking financial approval for it.
Reports suggest the new post is intended to provide a role for Shashidhar JE, who is married to MLA M Roopakala and currently works in the computer wing. The Karnataka Vidhan Sabha Assembly Employee Association has expressed its opposition, alleging that Shashidhar JE could not be appointed as secretary due to the traditional promotion path for that role, which typically does not include employees from the computer wing.
According to the Assembly's rule book, the Secretary of the Karnataka Legislative Assembly holds the powers, privileges, and status of a secretary to the Government in the Government Secretariat. Despite this, the creation of the "Secretary 2" post has been interpreted by many as an attempt to find a place for Muniyappa's son-in-law.
The BJP has strongly criticized the Karnataka government for this decision. BJP leader R Ashoka, Leader of the Opposition in the Karnataka Legislative Assembly, condemned the move in a social media post, accusing Chief Minister Siddaramaiah of being a weak leader who is wasting public funds and giving undue status to relatives of MLAs and ministers. Ashoka called for the Chief Minister's resignation to maintain dignity and avoid public revolt.
Similarly, MLA CN Ashwath Narayan denounced the government's actions, accusing it of abusing its power and lacking respect for the law. He vowed to oppose the creation of the Secretary 2 post, even suggesting taking the matter to the judiciary.
In contrast, Minister KH Muniyappa has refrained from commenting on the issue.
