Union Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy exudes confidence of coalition Govt in Karnataka in 2028 elections

Union Minister for Heavy Industries and Steel H.D. Kumaraswamy on Sunday (October 18, 2026) expressed confidence that JD(S)-BJP coalition government would come to power in Karnataka in 2028, and said he would “show another face” this time.

Addressing reporters, he said he had never misused power during his time in office. “When I was in power earlier, I did not misuse power. I let everything be free.” he said. Referring to allegations of a ₹150 crore scam against him, he said he had not misused power even then and had fought alone, as he does today.

Recalling the BJP’s rise in 2008-09, he said the Congress had not fought the ruling party then and that he had done so himself, placing documents on maladministration before the public. “Where was the Congress then?” he asked.

Warning the ruling party, Mr. Kumaraswamy said, “Even today I am telling you the party in power will have to pay a price for its rule.” Using a chess metaphor he said, “Not only he is well-versed in making a move in the game of chess. I also know how to make a pawn move. The time will come, let us wait.”

He said the coalition’s return in 2028 was a certainty, and that the government would pay for its present administration.

‘No sign of proper investigation into alleged sting op.’

Mr. Kumaraswamy said he had met the Director General of Police (DGP) on Saturday and submitted a petition seeking proper investigation into the alleged sting operation. But “looking at the faces of those present, there is no sign of a proper investigation,” he said adding that and he did not know who had all been trapped.

He questioned why no action had been taken against the person behind the sting operation, who he said had openly claimed responsibility and had allegedly targeted over 100 police personnel. “He has admitted it himself. What documents am I supposed to provide?” he asked. He alleged that the State government was “servile” to the individual and nurturing him. He also alleged that the man had spoken of a former Prime Minister in the singular, disrespectful form and was linking unrelated cases.

He said the Home Minister’s conduct over the past week suggested he had taken directions from the Chief Minister to provoke him.

Mr. Kumaraswamy also questioned former Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s silence. “It is a surprise. Why is Siddaramaiah silent? He has filed a complaint. I wonder whether any investigation is going on based on it,” he said.

He also said that despite his furnishing information on alleged irregularities in the KPSC recruitment process, no action had been taken, and the government was now asking him for documents.

Mr. Kumaraswamy was in Hassan to take part in a private programme. JD(S) legislators H.P. Swaroop, former Minister A. Manju and others were present at the press conference.