JD(S) Launches Allegations of Fund Misuse Against Congress and Surjewala in Karnataka
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Bengaluru, March 20 (NationPress) The Janata Dal (Secular) party has intensified its criticism of the Congress party, accusing it of misappropriating public funds. The JD(S) targeted AICC General Secretary and Karnataka Incharge Randeep Singh Surjewala, labeling him a 'collection agent' for the Congress.
On social media platform X, the JD(S) asserted that Surjewala’s arrival in Bengaluru coincides with the announcement of Assembly election dates in states including Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Assam, Puducherry, and West Bengal. They referred to him as a 'super CM' of Karnataka, insinuating that his visit was primarily for the purpose of collecting funds.
Furthermore, the JD(S) accused the Congress leadership in Karnataka, particularly Deputy Chief Minister and State Congress President D.K. Shivakumar, of operating under the directives of the central command, effectively transforming the state into an 'ATM' for the national leadership.
The party also raised concerns regarding the Valmiki Corporation, alleging that substantial amounts were misappropriated and utilized during elections in Telangana.
Additionally, the JD(S) claimed that the state government has been extracting commissions from contractors and imposing financial burdens on the public due to increasing prices and taxes. They urged citizens to stay vigilant against what they termed a 'commission-driven government.'
In a related event, Surjewala is scheduled to meet with Deputy CM Shivakumar and Chief Minister Siddaramaiah today.
JD(S) leader and Union Minister for Heavy Industries and Steel, H.D. Kumaraswamy, recently asserted that the commission payments for the release of government contract funds have surpassed 60% under the current administration.
Kumaraswamy has persistently accused the Karnataka government of rampant corruption, alleging a '60% commission' in contractor payments and a 'transfer scam' charging Rs 10 crore for each posting. He contends that a 'rate card' exists for government positions and suggests that funds are being collected from contractors to finance elections in other states.