A major political controversy has erupted in Karnataka after Leader of the Opposition R Ashok accused the Congress government of facilitating a massive financial scam through a Bengaluru waste management tender valued at ₹39,437 crore. The BJP leader alleged that the contract, awarded for a period of 30 years with a possible extension, could become one of the biggest financial irregularities in the state’s history.

Addressing a press conference, Ashok claimed that the tender would impose an enormous financial burden on Bengaluru while benefiting a single private entity. He announced plans to submit documents related to the matter to the Governor and other authorities, seeking an independent investigation.

Questions Raised Over Selection of Contractor

At the centre of the controversy is MSW Solutions Limited, a company linked to the Ramky Group, which secured the contract for waste processing and disposal in Bengaluru. Ashok alleged that the company had previously faced regulatory scrutiny and questioned its eligibility for handling such a large-scale project.

The BJP leader further claimed that the contractor had been permitted to raise loans worth ₹1,500 crore under the agreement. According to him, the contract grants extensive operational rights for handling thousands of tonnes of waste generated daily in Bengaluru.

The allegations have intensified political debate over transparency and accountability in public procurement.

Cost Escalation Becomes Key Point of Dispute

Ashok argued that Bengaluru’s existing waste management system costs approximately ₹1,344 crore annually, covering collection, transportation, processing, and worker salaries. He claimed that continuing the current model over three decades would cost significantly less than the newly approved contract.

According to the BJP, the new arrangement could increase overall expenditure to ₹39,437 crore. Ashok also alleged that the proposed tipping fee under the contract is substantially higher than the current rate, leading to concerns about long-term financial sustainability.

Government Review and Calls for Probe

The controversy has gained momentum after reports that the Karnataka Finance Department had raised concerns regarding the long duration of the contract and other financial aspects. Meanwhile, Union Minister Shobha Karandlaje has sought a CBI probe into the tender process.

Responding to the growing criticism, the Karnataka government has formed a committee to review the procurement process, tender conditions, and related procedures. The findings of the review are expected to play a crucial role in determining the future of the project.

With both the BJP and the Congress trading accusations, the issue is likely to remain a major political flashpoint in Karnataka in the coming weeks.

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