Hublot Watch Controversy (Allegations of Undisclosed Gift)

In 2016, then-Chief Minister Siddaramaiah found himself embroiled in a controversy when he was seen wearing a high-end Hublot watch, estimated to be worth over ₹70 lakh. This immediately sparked a political furor, with opposition parties, particularly the BJP and JD(S), questioning the source of the expensive timepiece and alleging that it was a bribe or an undisclosed gift. They demanded an investigation into how a Chief Minister, who often projected an image of austerity, could afford or justify such a luxury item. Initially, Siddaramaiah stated that the watch was a gift from a friend, Dr. Girish Chandra Varma, who was a non-resident Indian. However, the controversy escalated, leading to complaints being filed with the Karnataka Lokayukta, accusing him of accepting an undeclared gift and potential corruption. Faced with the mounting pressure and public scrutiny, Siddaramaiah eventually decided to declare the watch a state asset. In a televised event, he handed over the watch to the Speaker of the Karnataka Legislative Assembly, effectively donating it to the state. He maintained that he had done nothing wrong and that his intention was to put an end to the political controversy surrounding the watch. Following this action, the complaints filed with the Lokayukta were subsequently dismissed, as the watch was no longer considered a private asset but rather a public donation. While no formal charges of corruption were proven, the 'Hublot Watch Controversy' became a notable incident during his tenure.