Daijiworld Media Network – Bengaluru
Bengaluru, Feb 22: Chief minister (CM) Siddaramaiah has dismissed opposition claims of financial mismanagement under the Congress-led government, asserting that the state’s economy remains resilient despite BJP’s attempts to paint a different picture.
Responding to allegations by BJP leaders, including state unit president B Y Vijayendra and former CM Basavaraj Bommai, Siddaramaiah accused the opposition of misleading the public with false claims of economic collapse.
“Contrary to their statements, Karnataka’s economy is stable and progressing. The real financial strain occurred under BJP’s governance, which left behind unpaid bills amounting to Rs 2.70 lac crore across key sectors like public works, irrigation, and urban development. They also approved projects worth Rs 1.66 lac crore without proper budgetary allocation,” Siddaramaiah stated.
The CM highlighted that during the BJP’s tenure, economic mismanagement pushed Karnataka towards financial instability. He pointed out that the state’s average budget growth over the past two years under Congress is 18.3%, significantly higher than the 5% growth recorded during the BJP's four-year rule.
Siddaramaiah also accused the BJP-led central government of neglecting Karnataka’s financial interests, citing an annual revenue loss of Rs 18,000-20,000 crore due to the withdrawal of GST compensation. Despite this, he affirmed that the state government has maintained fiscal discipline, keeping the deficit below 3% and total liabilities within 25% of GSDP.
“Our capital expenditure is stronger than that of progressive states like Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, and Telangana. We are fulfilling our promises, investing over Rs 52,000 crore in guarantee schemes, and providing Rs 90,000 crore annually in direct benefits and subsidies,” he added.
Taking a swipe at the opposition, Siddaramaiah accused the BJP of failing Karnataka when in power and now resorting to misinformation. “Despite their conspiracies, Karnataka stands strong. We are committed to the people and will continue to fight for the state’s rightful share from the Centre,” he asserted.
Urging the opposition to stop spreading falsehoods, the CM called for collective efforts in driving Karnataka’s progress instead of engaging in baseless political rhetoric.