The Karnataka BJP accused the Congress government of diverting funds allocated for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes welfare programs. Leader of the Opposition in the Karnataka Legislative Assembly, R. Ashoka, claimed that over Rs 39,000 crore meant for SC/ST welfare had been misused. Out of the Rs 42,018 crore allotted, nearly Rs 35,000 crore was diverted towards other schemes, leaving only about Rs 7,000 crore for targeted development.
Ashoka criticized the state government for what he called a systematic diversion of funds meant for Dalit and tribal communities. He highlighted that the funds, legally designated for education, health, and empowerment initiatives for SC/ST communities, were being used for other purposes. The BJP leader also called out senior Congress MP Rahul Gandhi for his silence on the issue, questioning the party’s commitment to equity and social justice.
Warning of protests, Ashoka stated that more than 70 organizations were ready to oppose this alleged injustice. He demanded a clear commitment from Chief Minister Siddaramaiah in the upcoming Budget to prevent any further diversion of SC/ST welfare funds.
