Kalaburagi, Jan 3 (Reporter) The Karnataka BJP has announced a protest demanding the resignation of IT and BT Minister Priyank Kharge over the alleged suicide of Bidar-based contractor Sachin Panchal. The demonstration is scheduled for January 4 in Kalaburagi, Kharge's home district, as political tensions rise over the incident. The BJP has accused Kharge's close associate, Raju Kapanur, of harassing and threatening Panchal, leading to his alleged suicide. A police case has been filed against Kapanur and five others, further fuelling the controversy. Responding to the BJP’s call for protests, Priyank stated that he welcomes the demonstration, assuring that the protesters would be treated based on their behaviour. "If they maintain decorum, we will extend hospitality. If they indulge in misbehaviour, we will take legal action," he warned. Congress leaders have come out in support of Priyank, with Minister Sharan Prakash Patil criticising the BJP for using the issue to target Priyank, terming it a distraction from pressing public concerns. Similarly, Santosh Lad questioned the demand for Priyank's resignation, dismissing the BJP's actions as "political opportunism." The BJP, however, has expanded its allegations, claiming that contractors across the state are under immense financial and mental stress due to the Congress-led government's policies, contributing to a spate of suicides. The issue has added a legal dimension with the ongoing police investigation into the allegations against Priyank's associate. The BJP’s protest in Kalaburagi is expected to intensify the political clash, with both sides digging in their heels...////...