Is Siddaramaiah Engaging in Political Drama Over Pending Grants from the Centre?
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Synopsis
Union Minister Pralhad Joshi accuses Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah of political theatrics regarding pending grants. Joshi emphasizes financial mismanagement and urges the state government to utilize existing funds effectively. This ongoing tussle raises questions about accountability and governance in Karnataka.
Key Takeaways
- Pralhad Joshi critiques Siddaramaiah for political theatrics.
- Rs 4,195 crore in grants are allegedly pending from the Centre.
- Over Rs 5,000 crore remain unutilized under various schemes.
- Joshi emphasizes the need for effective fund utilization.
- Political accountability and management are crucial for governance.
Bengaluru, May 19 (NationPress) Union Minister for Food, Public Distribution and Consumer Affairs Pralhad Joshi criticized Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Monday, accusing him of engaging in political theatrics by asserting that Rs 4,195 crore in grants are pending from the Centre.
Joshi claimed that rather than acknowledging the financial mismanagement, administrative failures, and inefficiency of his government, Siddaramaiah is making unfounded accusations against the Centre.
Union Minister Joshi further stated that Siddaramaiah has not delivered on the promises made to the electorate.
Labeling the complaint about the Rs 4,195 crore pending grants as mere drama, Joshi noted that under various centrally sponsored schemes such as PMAY (Rural), Swachh Bharat Mission (Urban), AMRUT, Poshan, and Samagra Shiksha, over Rs 5,000 crore remains unutilized.
He suggested that the Karnataka government should first make proper use of these funds.
"If the funds already provided by the Centre have been fully utilized and there are specific schemes where additional funds are being withheld, Siddaramaiah should specify them. Otherwise, merely claiming that the Centre is withholding funds amounts to hollow rhetoric," Joshi asserted.
Union Minister Joshi also accused the state government of not spending even the funds that have already been allocated.
"Even Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar had previously admitted that Rs 40,000 crore was necessary to fulfill the Congress party’s popular guarantees. He openly acknowledged that there is no money left for development in their administration," he stated.
Referring to a former statement by Siddaramaiah’s Economic Advisor, Basavaraj Rayareddy, in January 2024, Union Minister Joshi highlighted that even he had expressed concerns regarding Rs 58,000 crore being allocated for unsustainable guarantees, indicating financial misuse.
"The Congress government must cease making unfounded allegations against the Centre. Instead, they should concentrate on effectively utilizing the considerable funds already at their disposal," he urged.
Earlier, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah mentioned that the Central government has not yet disbursed about Rs 4,195 crore, which is its outstanding share for centrally sponsored schemes.
He had called upon the Members of Parliament and Rajya Sabha members from the state to press the Centre to release the overdue funds.
Point of View
It's crucial to recognize the complexities of state and central relations in India. The accusations between Union Minister Joshi and CM Siddaramaiah highlight ongoing challenges in governance and resource allocation. It’s vital for both entities to focus on constructive solutions rather than engaging in blame games, ensuring that public funds are utilized effectively for development.
NationPress
10/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the amount of pending grants mentioned?
The pending grants amount to Rs 4,195 crore.
Who accused Siddaramaiah of political theatrics?
Union Minister Pralhad Joshi accused Siddaramaiah of political theatrics.
What schemes does Joshi mention regarding unutilized funds?
Joshi mentions schemes like PMAY (Rural), Swachh Bharat Mission (Urban), AMRUT, Poshan, and Samagra Shiksha.
What did Deputy Chief Minister Shivakumar admit?
He admitted that Rs 40,000 crore was needed to fulfill the Congress party’s guarantees.
What is the significance of the Rs 58,000 crore mentioned?
It was earmarked for unsustainable guarantees, indicating possible financial misuse.
