Karnataka Home Minister Accuses Center of Financial Disparity Against Southern States
Synopsis
In a bold statement, Karnataka Home Minister G. Parameshwara has underscored the financial discrimination faced by southern states in India, particularly regarding GST allocations and infrastructure projects, calling for fair treatment and reforms in the federal structure.
Key Takeaways
Karnataka Home Minister highlights financial discrimination against southern states.
Calls for fair allocation of GST shares and infrastructure projects.
Defends the state's borrowing practices as fiscally responsible.
Addresses political dynamics within the ruling party.
Stresses the importance of transparency in recruitment processes.
Bengaluru, March 4 (NationPress) Karnataka's Home Minister, G. Parameshwara, claimed on Wednesday that southern states are experiencing financial bias, especially concerning the distribution of GST shares and significant infrastructure initiatives.
Addressing the media following Chief Minister Siddaramiah's support for Tamil Nadu's M.K. Stalin's perspective on enhancing the country's federal structure, Parameshwara expressed that major projects are frequently assigned to states in northern India, while southern states are not receiving their rightful share.
"This concern is shared among us all. We contribute the second-largest portion of GST to the Centre. It is a valid request," he emphasized.
When faced with accusations that the Congress-led government in Karnataka is over-borrowing, Parameshwara defended the state's fiscal practices, stating they remain well within established limits.
"There is a borrowing cap of 25 percent, and we are comfortably below it. In terms of absolute amounts, we borrow the least among southern states. For instance, Maharashtra's loans have surpassed Rs 9.5 lakh crore," he remarked.
"We maintain strong financial discipline," he added.
On speculations regarding discord between Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, Parameshwara suggested that such political dynamics are typical in a democratic setup. He remarked on Shivakumar’s plan for a dinner meeting with party members, stating it is not an unusual occurrence.
"Since the first elections in 1952, it has been common for Chief Ministers and leaders to host dinner meetings. There’s nothing new in that. Shivakumar’s invitation to dinner is a positive development, promoting restraint," he explained.
He acknowledged the challenges of leading the state Congress unit, having held that position himself. "Shivakumar has been a long-term leader of the party. Discussions about new leadership will occur naturally when the time is right," he noted.
Parameshwara dismissed claims that the Chief Minister had ordered surveillance on Shivakumar, challenging critics to provide specifics. "Who is making these claims? They are speaking without knowledge. Let them clarify whose phone was tapped. Random statements are not helpful," he stated.
He reiterated the Chief Minister's assurance that no phone tapping has taken place. "I have reaffirmed this as well," he said.
Parameshwara mentioned his meeting with the Chief Minister on Monday to discuss departmental issues and matters concerning his hometown, Tumakuru. "I requested that certain issues be addressed in the budget," he stated.
Regarding the Karnataka Public Service Commission (KPSC), he recognized that complaints about recruitment inconsistencies have been ongoing for years. "We are implementing reforms. If issues persist, the Secretary or Chairman must take accountability," he asserted.
He highlighted that the government is preparing to fill 56,000 positions and emphasized the necessity for transparency and fairness in the recruitment process. "Developments like these should not happen at this stage. Recruitment must be conducted judiciously, and we will take the necessary steps," he concluded.
Point of View
It's evident that G. Parameshwara's remarks reflect a growing concern among southern states regarding equitable financial treatment. His emphasis on GST contributions and the call for a re-evaluation of federal dynamics highlights a significant political discourse that could shape future inter-state relations.
NationPress
6 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Karnataka Home Minister G. Parameshwara claim?
He claimed that southern states are experiencing financial discrimination, particularly in GST allocations and infrastructure projects.
How did Parameshwara respond to accusations of excessive borrowing by Karnataka?
He stated that Karnataka is within the prescribed borrowing limits and that the state borrows the least among southern states.
What did Parameshwara say about the reported discord between state leaders?
He noted that such political developments are normal in a democracy and highlighted that dinner meetings have been a tradition among leaders.
What is the government's stance on recruitment irregularities?
Parameshwara acknowledged ongoing complaints and stated that reforms are being implemented to address these issues.
What is the significance of the meeting between Parameshwara and the Chief Minister?
The meeting focused on departmental matters and requests for budget considerations related to Tumakuru district.
