Bagalkot (Karnataka), April 4 (NationPress) Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has asserted that the BJP is fearful of losing the upcoming bypoll and is engaging in misleading propaganda against the Congress government.

Addressing the media in Bagalkot on Saturday, he noted that the election campaign for the Bagalkot by-election has been progressing positively, with a significant response from the electorate. He expressed optimism about securing a favorable outcome in both constituencies.

According to Siddaramaiah, the initiatives introduced by the Congress government are aimed at benefiting the underprivileged. He highlighted that these programs cater to individuals across various castes, religions, and languages. He criticized the BJP for opposing the guarantee schemes, which he described as essential investments for social welfare and development.

“Development encompasses more than just infrastructure; it includes economic and social security,” he emphasized. Siddaramaiah pointed out that the BJP has consistently opposed these social schemes, claiming that Prime Minister Narendra Modi and others have suggested that the state would face bankruptcy.

He went on to mention that the guarantee schemes have been operational for three years, with an expenditure of Rs 1.31 lakh crore until March 24, 2026.

“Our spending on vital areas such as irrigation, public works, rural development, drinking water, and SC/ST schemes remains intact. Last year, we allocated Rs 42,000 crore, and this year, the budget has increased to over Rs 44,000 crore. Our development initiatives are ongoing,” he asserted.

In response to claims from the BJP regarding excessive borrowing, Siddaramaiah stated that the state's adherence to the Fiscal Responsibility and Budget Management (FRBM) Act has been maintained. He clarified that the debt ratio stands at 24.94 percent, well within the limits prescribed by the Act, ensuring fiscal discipline.

He pointed out that Karnataka's GDP growth rate is 8.1 percent, surpassing the central government's 7.14 percent. Furthermore, the Congress government has delivered on 158 out of 165 promises made in its 2013 manifesto, while the BJP has failed to fulfill even a fraction of its commitments.

Siddaramaiah emphasized that the Congress government has honored its promises, with the guarantee schemes positively impacting the populace. He challenged the BJP to focus on its achievements rather than criticizing the Congress.

He also remarked that the BJP is resorting to using expelled MLA Basanagouda Patil Yatnal for campaigning, a move that reflects the BJP's desperation and apprehension of losing the election.