Senior BJP leader and Leader of the Opposition, R. Ashoka, claimed that the Karnataka government is preparing to increase taxes after the bypolls. He suggested that if voters show dissatisfaction with the ruling party, it might reconsider raising taxes. Ashoka made these remarks during a media interaction in Chitradurga, Karnataka.
Responding to Congress’ accusations of price hikes under the BJP-led Central government, Ashoka pointed out that diesel prices had decreased and ghee prices had also fallen. He criticized the state government for allegedly planning to impose various taxes on the public once the bypolls conclude. Ashoka highlighted that while the Centre reduces prices, the Karnataka government tends to raise them, especially on petrol, diesel, and other goods.
Ashoka further criticized the Chief Minister Siddaramaiah-led government, accusing it of mismanagement and corruption. He claimed that the government had borrowed substantial amounts, burdening each person in Karnataka with a debt of Rs 80,000. Ashoka also mentioned the delayed release of funds under the Gruha Lakshmi and Anna Bhagya schemes, along with pending payments to contractors, which he believed would impact the election outcomes.
Expressing confidence in the BJP’s prospects in the upcoming Assembly elections, Ashoka stated that people would vote for the party and development, aiming to overthrow the current government. He also addressed the IPL ticket controversy, suggesting that legislators should purchase tickets instead of receiving them for free, proposing distribution to cricket clubs in constituencies.
