Pics: Spoorthi Ullal
Daijiworld Media Network- Mangaluru (VP)
Mangaluru, Mar 8: MLCs Prathapsimha Nayak and Bharathi Shetty criticized the Congress party, asserting that the budget allocated by the BJP's central government exceeds that provided during the UPA's tenure. They lamented Siddaramaiah's government's failure to fulfill its promises, particularly noting its decision to keep bars open on Women's Day and its distribution of chocolate schemes to women in Karnataka. They praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his approach of teaching people how to fish, implying self-reliance, whereas they criticized Siddaramaiah for merely providing hand-outs.
Addressing a press conference held on Friday, March 8, MLC Bharathi Shetty stated, "Today is International Women's Day, and since independence, our country has made strides in supporting women. I extend my gratitude to Narendra Modi, under whose leadership women are flourishing in our nation. The appointment of female leaders, including the finance minister, is a testament to his commitment to women's empowerment. While the Congress talks about its dreams, our Prime Minister has turned those dreams into reality. Initiatives such as the death penalty for rapists, the SVANidhi Yojana, and the Mudra Yojana have uplifted individuals in lower socioeconomic segments. Additionally, the Start-up India initiative has provided significant support to women entrepreneurs. The Jan Dhan Yojana has reached 1.86 crore households across India. Programs like Lakpati Didi Yojana, Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, and Vishwakarma Yojana have benefited numerous women. These initiatives have provided invaluable assistance to women across the nation.
"Karnataka currently ranks 4th in terms of catering to the medical treatment needs of the middle class. To address these needs, 35.5 lac gas cylinders have been provided thus far. Additionally, under the successful Jal Jeevan Mission scheme, drinking water is being supplied to all households, with approximately 48 lac toilets constructed. We have extended pregnancy leave and are providing financial assistance for treatments and vaccines for newborns. Through the Ayushman Bharat scheme, around 5 lac people in Karnataka have received benefits. Even during the COVID-19 pandemic, women received Rs 500 in three instalments, and rice has been provided at a subsidized rate of just Rs 29 for everyone," she said.
MLC Prathapsimha Nayak criticized Siddaramaiah's new budget, stating, "If you look at the budget without the 5 guarantees, there is very little substance. The announcement of 10,000 houses seems to be merely for publicity purposes. Despite allocating Rs 2 crore for development, we have only received Rs 50 lac so far. Additionally, there have been attempts to increase taxes on temples, and while the loan amount has been raised from Rs 3-5 lac, there are insufficient funds to support this increase.
"The economy has been severely impacted by these guarantee schemes, leading to significant borrowing. Unfortunately, the funds are not being invested in capital projects; instead, they are being used primarily to cover salaries. Meanwhile, the government boasts about guarantees for people in other states. When it comes to the governor or the budget, they criticize the central government without providing evidence. Many central government projects have been halted due to the state government's inability to provide its share of funding.
“During the UPA government's tenure from 2004 to 2014, Karnataka received only Rs 81,000 crore in investments. In contrast, under the NDA government from 2014 to 2024, Karnataka has been allocated Rs 2.82 lac crore rupees, marking a 280% increase. Similarly, during the UPA era, Karnataka received Rs 60,000 crores, while under the NDA, the state received Rs 2.36 lac crore rupees, reflecting a 243% increase. Despite this, the Congress continues to claim that the BJP is withholding funds.
“At BJP, we believe in equality for all. However, there appears to be discrimination in allocating funds, with more money directed towards Muslims and Christians. Why are Hindus being overlooked? Are we not all children of the same mother? Moreover, they have even targeted temple funds. It is concerning that leaders at Vidhana Soudha praise Pakistan, and they face no repercussions. There have been discussions about Pulwama, and the Prime Minister recently visited Kashmir, emphasizing its transformation into a tourism hub. Nevertheless, Karnataka seems to be heading in the direction of old Kashmir.
“The opposition alliance lacks leadership and is filled with the wrong people. As the Congress President declared, 'Abki Baar, 400 Paar', this scenario seems likely to unfold," he said.
When questioned by the media about poverty prevention, MLC Bharathi Shetty responded, "Approximately 50% of people have risen above the poverty line, as explicitly stated in the recently released whitepaper. I challenge the state government to present their own whitepaper, which will shed light on the situation and provide clarity."