Is There No Meeting Planned in Delhi Between LoP Gandhi and K'taka CM, Dy CM?
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Synopsis
In a recent statement, Congress leader Randeep Singh Surjewala sharply refuted rumors of a meeting between Rahul Gandhi and Karnataka’s CM and Dy CM in Delhi. He highlighted critical issues affecting Karnataka and the pressing need for government accountability regarding joblessness and project approvals.
Key Takeaways
- Meeting claims dismissed by Surjewala as imaginary.
- Focus on Karnataka issues raised at the national level.
- Concerns regarding unemployment and economic policies.
- Truck owners' strike highlights financial struggles.
- Bharat Bandh reflects widespread discontent.
Bengaluru, July 9 (NationPress) Randeep Singh Surjewala, the National General Secretary of Congress and in-charge of Karnataka, dismissed claims about a meeting between the Leader of the Opposition (LoP) in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, and Chief Minister Siddaramaiah along with Deputy CM D.K. Shivakumar in New Delhi, labeling them as 'purely imaginary'.
Responding to media inquiries regarding a potential gathering, since both the CM and Dy CM are in New Delhi addressing state matters, he termed the reports 'purely imaginary'.
'I have no information about any such meeting between LoP Rahul Gandhi and the Karnataka CM and Dy CM. Indeed, the CM and Dy CM are in Delhi to advocate for issues impacting the people of Karnataka and the state government. There is evident discrimination and animosity from the BJP and the Union government against the people of Karnataka for voting them out,' Surjewala stated.
'This animosity is evident in the denial of approvals for various projects like the Kalasa-Banduri and Mekedatu projects by the Centre.'
'Our GST funds are being withheld, our share from the Finance Commission is denied. It is the responsibility of the CM and Dy CM to approach Delhi and highlight these issues,' Surjewala added.
When queried about the truck owners on an indefinite strike due to pending dues exceeding Rs 250 crore and the suspension of transportation for Anna Bhagya free rice, Surjewala acknowledged the development.
'I've communicated with the Chief Minister and the relevant Minister. They assured me they would engage with the truck drivers soon and ensure all outstanding payments are settled in a timely manner,' he stated.
On the Bharat Bandh called by over 10 Trade Unions nationwide, including the Indian National Trade Union Congress (INTUC), he remarked that 25 crore people are protesting on Wednesday across the country.
He remarked that the reported unemployment rate stands between 7 to 7.5 percent in India.
According to the Centre for Monitoring Indian Economy, the unemployment rate exceeds 10 percent, with nearly 30 percent among graduates and postgraduates, indicating joblessness at a 45-year high.
'The absence of jobs is why the Trade Unions are attempting to draw the BJP government's attention at the Centre,' he stated.
'MGNREGA, a vital livelihood source for the poor, SCs, STs, and OBCs, is under siege by the Central government. The budget remains stagnant at Rs 80,000 crore.
'We previously guaranteed 100 days of work each year, but this government has restricted it to just 44 days. Consequently, 7 crore MGNREGA workers have lost their livelihood rights due to linking MGNREGA with Aadhaar. These are the pressing concerns raised by the Trade Unions,' Surjewala emphasized.
'There are 30 lakh vacancies in India, including 85,000 in Central police forces. Why isn't the Indian government filling these positions? Today, India ranks as the 50th poorest nation globally. In terms of per capita income, we trail behind Bangladesh, Cambodia, and Kenya. The global per capita income is $14,000, while ours is $2,900,' he criticized.
'India holds the 111th position out of 125 in the Global Hunger Index, 134th out of 193 in the Human Development Index, and 159th out of 180 in the global Press Freedom Index, which is why the unions are protesting,' Surjewala concluded.
Point of View
It is crucial to scrutinize the government's accountability on pressing issues raised by political leaders. The allegations of discrimination against Karnataka and the broader economic challenges facing the nation highlight the urgent need for dialogue and action. This situation demands a comprehensive response from all stakeholders to ensure the welfare of the citizens.
NationPress
20/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Randeep Singh Surjewala say about the meeting?
Surjewala dismissed reports of a meeting between Rahul Gandhi and the Karnataka CM and Dy CM as 'purely imaginary'.
What issues did Surjewala raise regarding the Karnataka government?
He highlighted issues such as project approvals being denied by the Centre and the impact of unemployment on the citizens of Karnataka.
How did Surjewala address the truck owners' strike?
He acknowledged the strike and mentioned that discussions would take place to resolve outstanding payments to truck drivers.
What did he say about the Bharat Bandh?
Surjewala mentioned that over 25 crore people are participating in protests across the country due to pressing economic issues.
What are the unemployment statistics mentioned?
The reported unemployment rate in India is between 7 to 7.5 percent, with rates exceeding 10 percent according to the Centre for Monitoring Indian Economy.
