Channapatna: Ahead of the Karnataka by-elections, former Chief Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy stirred up a fresh controversy by releasing an audio clip reportedly featuring Congress leader and former MP D.K. Suresh making critical remarks about C.P. Yogeeshwar, who recently switched allegiance to Congress from BJP.

The audio release follows a string of accusations among prominent political figures as election campaigning intensifies.

In the released audio clip, Suresh allegedly makes pointed remarks about Yogeeshwar’s dealings in the real estate sector.

Kumaraswamy also mentioned that Suresh’s comments reveal the ongoing animosity and distrust among Karnataka’s political leaders.

Addressing the press, Kumaraswamy dismissed Suresh’s objection to him calling people “brother” as trivial, saying, “I call everyone ‘brother.’ What’s the issue? Their true intentions are well-known to all.”

The exchange has added a new layer of drama to the by-election campaign, with political parties locking horns over allegations and personal criticisms, giving voters plenty to consider as they head to the polls.