'Yes, I stole from...': DK Shivakumar quips at BJP as watch row escalates

Karnataka deputy chief minister DK Shivakumar

Karnataka deputy chief minister DK Shivakumar on Thursday responded to allegations levelled by the BJP that he did not disclose an expensive watch in his election affidavit, stating that he clearly and transparently mentioned everything.

Shivakumar was responding to a question on BJP MLC Chalavadi Narayanaswamy's remarks that the deputy CM had omitted details of a costly watch in the affidavit.

Speaking to reporters at Vidhana Soudha, Shivakumar said, "What does he know? I know about my affidavit. I am the one who paid the money for the watches, and I have disclosed all the details transparently. I have also disclosed ownership of a Rolex watch. I have nothing to learn from Narayanaswamy."

When asked about Narayanaswamy's question on whether the watch was stolen, the deputy CM quipped, "Yes, I stole from his house!"

During their “Breakfast 2.0” appearance earlier this week, Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar were seen wearing gold-toned watches that looked strikingly alike, prompting buzz in political circles.

Those close to the pair suggested the watches were similar to the Cartier Santos De series, valued at about Rs 43 lakh apiece, according to a report by the Times of India.

“The Cartier brand of wristwatch, which Shivakumar wears, is worth Rs 46 lakh,’’ leader of opposition in the legislative council Narayanaswamy alleged.

“Shivakumar’s election affidavit does not mention that he owns a Cartier watch. This watch costs around Rs 43 lakh. Including tax, it costs over Rs 46 lakh. We just want to know from where he got this watch? Is it a stolen one?’’ he was quoted as saying by The New Indian Express.

He further questioned if the deputy CM purchased it, why was the same not mentioned in the election affidavit. “Are you not lying to the people of Karnataka? You (Shivakumar) claimed that you used your credit card to buy this watch. If so, release documents supporting it,’’ the BJP leader said.