Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah criticized the BJP for consistently opposing welfare programs for the underprivileged. He highlighted that the government has allocated Rs 1.31 lakh crore for guarantee schemes, with Rs 535 crore benefiting Davanagere South constituency alone. Siddaramaiah emphasized the government’s focus on uplifting the poorest sections through direct benefit transfers, inspired by leaders like Basavanna, Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, and Mahatma Gandhi.
Defending the economic strategy, Siddaramaiah mentioned the adoption of a “Universal Basic Income” approach over the “trickle-down theory.” He refuted claims that guarantee schemes have drained the state treasury, pointing out that the Congress government has borrowed Rs 2.56 lakh crore in four years compared to the BJP’s Rs 5.30 lakh crore debt by March 2023. Siddaramaiah also drew a comparison between Karnataka’s borrowing and the country’s total debt under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s tenure.
Addressing calls for a white paper on state finances, Siddaramaiah argued that the budget already provides comprehensive information discussed in the Assembly. He highlighted Karnataka’s economic performance, citing an 8.1% growth rate surpassing the national GDP growth rate and a budget size increase to Rs 4.48 lakh crore. Additionally, he criticized the BJP for the surge in fuel and LPG prices, questioning the party’s governance at the Centre.
