Nothing wrong with tipping good officials: Row over Karnataka minister's remark

Karnataka minister KM Shivalinge Gowda has landed in a major controversy after publicly saying that there is nothing wrong with people willingly giving "tips" or "honorariums" to government officials if they get their work done on time.In a video widely shared online, the minister is heard saying, "If officials do their work, giving bribes is righteous!"The Congress leader's remarks, made at a public grievance event in Hassan district, triggered a heated exchange at the event, with participants immediately questioning his statement.“Paying officials respectfully to get your work done is Dharma” - Karnataka Congress Minister Shivalinge Gowda.Bribery as Dharma ?If the Govt normalises paying bribes, what else do you call it but open corruption? pic.twitter.com/QlQ5JOr0M4— Shilpa (@shilpa_cn) September 20, 2026A man in the audience was heard asking why the public should give officials "tips" and questioned whether such a statement amounted to encouraging bribery. As more people in the audience voiced their objections and the situation became tense, minister Gowda attempted to clarify and defend his remarks.He said what he was trying to convey was that officials should not forcibly collect money and that those who work honestly should be respected. He also claimed that he was "not encouraging bribery". Hassan Deputy Commissioner KS Latha Kumari, who was seated beside the minister, also intervened and attempted to pacify the protesters.The minister's remarks have triggered a political uproar, with the Opposition BJP joining the criticism. Sharing a video of Gowda's remarks, the BJP said, "Shivalingegowda's own words have exposed the true nature of the bribe-seeking Congress government."“This bribe-collecting Congress, which preaches that dipping into the pockets of ordinary people is righteous, will be taught a proper lesson by the people of the state,” the party added.BJP MLC CT Ravi also condemned the minister's remarks in a post on X. Ravi pointed out that Chief Minister DK Shivakumar had previously said that anyone who asks for even Rs 10 as a bribe should complain to him."But ministers of his own government are saying 'respectfully give bribes'," Ravi said."It may be natural for you to receive or give bribes, minister, but not for the people of Karnataka," he added.Several others on the internet also reacted sharply to the minister's remarks, with many calling for immediate action against him.- EndsPublished On: Sep 21, 2026 07:32 IST