Why is K'taka BJP Calling Surjewala ‘Super CM’?
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Synopsis
In a recent political twist, the Karnataka BJP has labeled Congress leader Randeep Singh Surjewala as the 'Super CM' after CM Siddaramaiah allocated significant funds to MLAs following their meetings. This article dives into the implications of these developments and the reactions from various political leaders.
Key Takeaways
- Randeep Singh Surjewala is referred to as 'Super CM' by the BJP.
- CM Siddaramaiah sanctioned Rs 50 crore for each MLA.
- Discontent among Congress MLAs has been highlighted.
- Funding aims to address local area development.
- District meetings are set for July 30-31.
Bengaluru, July 19 (NationPress) In a mocking tone regarding Chief Minister Siddaramaiah's decision to allocate Rs 50 crore each for local area development to every MLA, particularly those from the ruling party, after their individual meeting with Congress National General Secretary Randeep Singh Surjewala, the Karnataka BJP has labeled the Congress leader as the 'Super CM' of the state.
Leader of the Opposition (LoP) in the Legislative Assembly, R. Ashoka, remarked on Saturday, "For the past 26 months, Congress MLAs have struggled to maintain their dignity in their constituencies, having not received a single paisa in grants from their own government. However, thanks to the influence of six days of discussions with Super CM Surjewala, they have now secured Rs 50 crore each from CM Siddaramaiah."
Ashoka sarcastically added, "Congratulations, Super CM Surjewala, for securing funds for MLAs’ areas. Now, please earn some credibility by ensuring that MLAs from the BJP and Janata Dal (S) also receive their share of the funds swiftly."
He further asserted that Super CM Surjewala's meetings with Congress MLAs have uncovered significant discontent within the party, leaving Chief Minister Siddaramaiah in a jittery state. To preserve his position, he is now distributing Rs 50 crore each to the MLAs.
Aiming his comments at Deputy CM D.K. Shivakumar, Ashoka questioned, "What do you mean by saying Opposition MLAs should patiently wait for constituency funds? Let us remind you, Mr. D.K. Shivakumar — the state treasury is not a fund for your Congress party. It's the hard-earned tax money of 6.5 crore Kannadigas. Cease this discriminatory approach and distribute funds equitably among all constituencies."
Meanwhile, State President B. Y. Vijayendra responded to queries regarding the uneven distribution of funds to MLAs by sarcastically stating, "The Chief Minister has shown remarkable generosity, evidently."
“Despite being in office for two years, Congress MLAs themselves have voiced dissatisfaction over the lack of funds. To protect his position, the CM is staging a performance concerning fund allocation,” he commented.
He noted that Siddaramaiah has penned a letter regarding the release of Rs 50 crore to all MLAs in Karnataka. "Has this amount been disbursed? When will it be made available? When will it reach the MLAs? When will development work actually commence? These questions remain unresolved," he observed.
In response to the backlash, Medical Education Minister Sharan Prakash Patil stated, "The grants will be disbursed to all MLAs. We will not replicate the disparity of the BJP government that failed to provide funds to our MLAs. CM Siddaramaiah has confirmed that the funds will be allocated based on need to all MLAs."
Under increasing pressure from his own MLAs regarding insufficient funds for development projects, CM Siddaramaiah has sanctioned Rs 50 crore for each of the state's 224 Assembly constituencies as part of the CM's Infrastructure Development Programme.
Of the allocated Rs 50 crore, Rs 37 crore will be dedicated to roads, bridges, and various other projects. The remaining Rs 12.5 crore is left to the MLAs' discretion for their preferred projects. The CM has also scheduled district-wise discussions with MLAs on July 30-31.
Point of View
It's crucial to observe the ongoing developments in Karnataka's political arena. The allocation of significant funds by CM Siddaramaiah raises questions about governance and accountability. This strategy, despite appearing as a move to pacify discontent within the Congress ranks, could also reflect deeper issues within state leadership. Monitoring these dynamics is essential for understanding the broader implications for governance in Karnataka.
NationPress
19/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did the BJP refer to Randeep Singh Surjewala as 'Super CM'?
The BJP referred to Surjewala as 'Super CM' due to his influence in securing Rs 50 crore each for Congress MLAs after meetings with Chief Minister Siddaramaiah.
What is the total funding allocated to each MLA?
Each MLA in Karnataka has been allocated Rs 50 crore under the CM's Infrastructure Development Programme.
What are the main areas of focus for the allocated funds?
Of the Rs 50 crore, Rs 37 crore is earmarked for infrastructure projects like roads and bridges, while Rs 12.5 crore is discretionary for MLAs.
What was the reaction of the Opposition?
The Opposition criticized the funding allocations, highlighting dissatisfaction among Congress MLAs and questioning the fairness of the distribution process.
When are the district-wise meetings with MLAs scheduled?
District-wise meetings with MLAs are scheduled for July 30-31.
