Former Karnataka Chief Minister and BJP MP Basavaraj Bommai criticized the Siddaramaiah-led government for its handling of rehabilitation measures and financial allocations concerning the Upper Krishna Project. Bommai expressed dissatisfaction over the government’s distribution of around Rs 400 crore, which had been delayed despite prior orders.
Speaking at a press conference in Bagalkot, Bommai highlighted the differences between the upcoming elections and emphasized the BJP’s confidence in securing victory. He raised concerns about potential attempts by the ruling party to influence voters through monetary means, asserting that the election represents a choice between “state power and people’s power.”
In response to Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar’s comments regarding the electoral success of political leaders’ sons, Bommai pointed out past electoral defeats of prominent figures, including Chief Minister Siddaramaiah. He criticized the government’s budget allocation of Rs 3,000 crore out of the approved Rs 18,000 crore for land acquisition under the Upper Krishna Project’s third phase, expressing worries about compensation for affected farmers.
Bommai highlighted the plight of farmers seeking compensation through legal channels due to insufficient funds allocated by the government. He accused the authorities of misleading the public and failing to fulfill promises made to the region’s residents, particularly regarding the annual Rs 10,000 crore commitment for the project. The former CM also questioned the Congress party’s allocation of funds to Navanagar in Bagalkot during its tenure.
