Did K'taka Minister Parameshwara Really Claim Cong Govt is Out of Money?

Bengaluru, June 25 (NationPress) In response to criticism stemming from his claim that the Chief Minister Siddaramaiah-led government in Karnataka has depleted its funds, Home Minister G. Parameshwara clarified on Wednesday that he never made such an assertion.

Addressing the media, Parameshwara stated, "I have not made any statement like that. The BJP is misinterpreting my words. What I actually conveyed was that Badami city boasts a rich history of 1,500 years, and the cave temples there are one of a kind globally. I proposed a significant project worth Rs 1,000 crore to ensure its preservation."

"I mentioned that the state government might not be able to allocate such a vast sum, and support from the Central government would be advantageous," he added.

"When did I ever claim that we have no funds whatsoever?" Parameshwara challenged.

"Let me reaffirm, the state’s economy is robust," he insisted.

He further explained, "The Chief Minister has introduced a budget of Rs 4.09 lakh crore. The previous year's budget was Rs 3.70 lakh crore. Naturally, there has been an increase in the budget outlay. How can anyone misconstrue this as a shortage of funds?"

"We have set aside adequate resources for irrigation and developmental projects. It's not solely about guarantee schemes. Only Rs 52,000 crore has been allocated for guarantees, and even that has been planned by the Chief Minister within the budget framework," Parameshwara clarified.

"Did I ever assert that our government lacks money? I merely stated that the Rs 1,000 crore initiative for the historic Badami city should receive funding from the Central government," he reiterated.

"Am I not sensible enough? Such irresponsible statements cannot be made while holding a government position. We are cognizant of the ground realities. Being in a responsible role, I would never say something so reckless," he remarked.

When questioned about Congress MLAs criticizing their own government, Parameshwara remarked, "The MLAs are raising issues pertinent to their constituencies. They are not speaking against the state government but are expressing concerns about the lack of funds for developmental projects, which we will address."

"The Chief Minister has instructed all MLAs, including those from the opposition, to devise a Rs 50 lakh action plan. I am also working on the action plan for my constituency. If there were no funds, would this have been achievable?" he questioned.

On whether CM Siddaramaiah will meet the MLAs after his return from Delhi, Parameshwara stated, "I am not fully informed about this matter. The Chief Minister is in Delhi meeting senior leaders of the high command. We do not know the specifics of their discussions or if any directives have been issued."

"Should he be directed to meet the legislators, he will undoubtedly arrange a meeting," Parameshwara added.

Responding to senior Congress MLA Raju Kage’s comments about delays in fund allocations and the government losing grip on bureaucracy, Parameshwara noted, "MLA Raju Kage may be encountering these issues personally. We acknowledge his concerns, and Chief Minister Siddaramaiah will ensure they are addressed."

When asked about numerous MLAs expressing dissatisfaction with ministerial conduct, Parameshwara explained, "During the legislators' meeting, everyone had the opportunity to express their concerns. Many did voice their opinions. This is not a significant issue; it will be resolved."

"The Chief Minister will take care of it. MLAs will always have grievances, regardless of the party in power. It is not feasible to meet all their demands at all times. I am confident that the CM will address these matters," Parameshwara concluded.

Amid the rising embarrassment for the Congress government in Karnataka due to remarks from its senior MLAs, State Home Minister G. Parameshwara sparked a new controversy by stating that Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has no money left, as everything has been distributed to the populace in the form of rations.

This statement has ignited a statewide discussion regarding the sustainability and implications of the state government's guarantee schemes.

In a sharp reaction, former Infosys Chief Financial Officer and activist T.V. Mohandas Pai remarked on X, stating: "It is disheartening to witness the adverse effects of freebies under Chief Minister Siddaramaiah. Even Home Minister G. Parameshwara acknowledges it—there's no money for development, investments, or job creation."

"Three budgets have passed, and still, there are no funds for development. With two more budgets remaining, what can Karnataka expect in terms of development and jobs?" Pai questioned the state government.

Karnataka BJP President and MLA B.Y. Vijayendra commented, "This suggests that the Chief Minister, through his Home Minister, is conveying to Congress MLAs that the treasury is empty and they should refrain from requesting grants."

Home Minister Parameshwara made this statement while inaugurating a new building for the Fire and Emergency Services Department in Badami on Monday.

In his address, Parameshwara stated, "You should formulate a plan for the comprehensive development of Badami city. The budget amount is irrelevant—whether it is a Rs 1,000 crore project, prepare the blueprint and present it to the Central government. Because here (in Karnataka), we lack money. Siddaramanna (CM Siddaramaiah) has no funds left. Whatever resources we had have already been allocated—rice, grains, dal, and oil."