Bengaluru, April 8 (NationPress) In a bold statement, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has taken aim at the Election Commission of India (ECI) for questioning the state government about the allocation of funds for guarantee schemes in Davanagere and Bagalkot districts, where by-elections are currently being held.

In response to the ECI's inquiry, Siddaramaiah maintained that these guarantee schemes represent ongoing welfare initiatives, not mere electoral promises. He emphasized that these programs align with the commitments made by the Congress party during the 2023 Assembly elections and are being executed in a structured and transparent manner.

The Chief Minister underscored that funds are being systematically distributed to beneficiaries in accordance with established guidelines, framing these programs as a means of enhancing human dignity, ensuring household stability, and fostering economic participation, rather than as electoral inducements.

Siddaramaiah further criticized the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), accusing them of hypocrisy regarding welfare schemes. He pointed out that while BJP leaders disparage Karnataka's guarantee initiatives as "freebies," they have implemented similar strategies in states governed by them. He asserted that the Karnataka model has set a precedent for effective welfare governance across India.

Additionally, he expressed concern about what he described as a "selective approach" by the ECI, referencing states like Maharashtra and Bihar, where he claimed cash transfer programs were either announced or expedited ahead of elections, providing direct financial benefits to voters. He argued that such instances were not subjected to the same level of scrutiny.

Labeling the ECI's actions as “not neutrality but complicity,” Siddaramaiah accused the Commission of displaying bias, alleging that it turns a blind eye to actions in BJP or NDA-ruled states while closely monitoring initiatives in Karnataka.

He further contended that targeting the state’s guarantee schemes is tantamount to being anti-poor, anti-women, and against the interests of Karnataka.

Reiterating his government's commitment, Siddaramaiah affirmed that the administration will uphold its promises and continue to provide welfare measures for the people of the state.

It is noteworthy that the Election Commission of India reached out to the state's Chief Secretary on Tuesday, seeking details regarding the release of funds for guarantee schemes in Davanagere and Bagalkot during the ongoing by-election period.

This inquiry follows the state government's recent disbursement of guarantee scheme funds to both districts amid the by-election campaign. Election Commission Secretary Pawan Diwan has formally requested a detailed report on the funds allocated in these areas, including the names of the officials responsible for the approvals.

The directive comes against the backdrop of the enforcement of the Model Code of Conduct, with the Commission reiterating that no new funds should be allocated for welfare schemes without prior approval while the code is in effect.