Does the Siddaramaiah government lack funds?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
The recent declaration by Karnataka's Home Minister has ignited a debate on the financial state of the Congress government led by Siddaramaiah. With allegations of mismanagement and ineffective budgeting, questions arise about the future of development in the state. Explore the implications of these statements and their impact on Karnataka's governance.
Key Takeaways
- Chief Minister Siddaramaiah is facing criticism over financial management.
- Home Minister G. Parameshwara's remarks have sparked a statewide debate.
- Concerns about the impact of freebie policies on development are rising.
- Calls for comprehensive development plans for Badami have been made.
- The Central government is expected to play a role in funding future projects.
Bengaluru, June 24 (NationPress) In a significant embarrassment for the Congress-led administration in Karnataka, State Home Minister G. Parameshwara has ignited a new controversy by declaring that Chief Minister Siddaramaiah lacks funds, asserting that all resources have been allocated to the populace in the form of ration.
This statement has sparked a statewide discussion regarding the viability and effects of the government’s guarantee schemes.
In a sharp retort, former Infosys Chief Financial Officer and activist T.V. Mohandas Pai took to X on Tuesday, expressing, "It’s disheartening to witness the severe repercussions of the freebies distributed by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah. Even Home Minister G. Parameshwara acknowledges that there are no funds available for development, investments, or job creation."
"Three budgets have passed, yet there remains no funding for development. With two budgets left, what progress can Karnataka expect by the end of five years? Jobs?" Pai questioned the government.
Karnataka BJP President and MLA B.Y. Vijayendra recalled Parameshwara's words from Badami, where he allegedly remarked, "Sidramanna (CM Siddaramaiah) doesn’t have money; please don’t come requesting funds."
"This suggests that through his Home Minister, the Chief Minister has conveyed to Congress MLAs that the treasury is empty and they should refrain from asking for allocations," Vijayendra further claimed.
He also accused CM Siddaramaiah of misappropriating state resources.
Parameshwara made his controversial statement while inaugurating a new facility for the Fire and Emergency Services Department in Badami. During his address, he stated, "Develop a plan for the comprehensive growth of Badami city. Regardless of the budget—whether it’s a project worth a thousand crores—prepare the proposal and submit it to the Central government. Because here (in Karnataka), we lack funds. Siddaramanna (CM Siddaramaiah) has no funds left. All resources we had have been given out—rice, grains, dal, and oil."
He added, "I’ve been informed that the Prime Minister Narendra Modi has sufficient funds, and the Central government owes money to Karnataka. Thus, if a proposal for overall development is sent, Badami—a city with a 1,500-year-old heritage—can be transformed."
Critiquing the inadequate infrastructure at the Badami cave temple, Parameshwara highlighted the absence of basic amenities, noting women’s struggles to find restrooms.
He mentioned that he has discussed these concerns with officials from the Archaeological Survey of India.
"I hope the Central government allocates ₹1,000 crores for the development of Badami," he concluded.
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah represented the Badami Assembly constituency in 2018 after facing a humiliating defeat in his traditional stronghold of Varuna.
Worried about potential anti-incumbency, Siddaramaiah contested from two Assembly seats in the 2018 state elections.
Earlier, Siddaramaiah had led the Congress government from 2013 to 2018 in the state.
Point of View
The remarks made by Home Minister Parameshwara reflect a critical moment for the Congress government in Karnataka. This situation raises important questions about fiscal responsibility and governance. It is essential to assess the broader implications of these statements on political accountability and public trust.
NationPress
24/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What did G. Parameshwara say about the state funds?
G. Parameshwara stated that Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has no money left for development as all resources have been allocated to the public in the form of ration.
Who criticized the government's freebie policy?
T.V. Mohandas Pai criticized the government's policy, stating that it has disastrous impacts on development and job creation.
What are the implications of Parameshwara's statement?
The statement suggests that the Congress government may be facing financial constraints, leading to concerns about the future of development projects in Karnataka.
What was the context of Parameshwara's comments?
He made his remarks during the inauguration of a Fire and Emergency Services facility in Badami.
What development plans are mentioned for Badami?
Parameshwara urged local leaders to prepare comprehensive development plans for Badami and submit them to the Central government for funding.
