Bengaluru: In a significant development, BJP leader Mani Kant Rathore has been arrested in Karnataka on charges of stealing rice valued at Rs 20 million from a government storage facility.

According to Kashmir Media Service, Bengaluru Police detained Rathore at his residence in Kalbargi Shahpur following his failure to respond to prior questioning invitations. The arrest occurred after a police raid at his home. Rathore is accused of misappropriating 6077 quintals of rice intended for distribution under a government welfare scheme from a godown in Yadgir district.

The stolen rice was part of the Bhagya scheme, aimed at providing 10 kg of free food grains monthly to impoverished families. Rathore’s political activities include a recent electoral contest against Priyank Kharge, the son of Congress president Malkar Jan Kharge, during which he received substantial support from senior BJP figures, including Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.

Rathore’s criminal record is extensive, with allegations including murder, attempted murder, and illegal weapons possession. This latest arrest adds another serious charge to his profile, highlighting ongoing legal challenges facing the politician.