Haveri, Jan 7 (NationPress) Karnataka's Chief Minister Siddaramaiah stated on Wednesday that an individual's presence in politics is sustained by the people's support, and he intends to remain active in public service as long as that backing is present.

Addressing the media at the helipad of Koli Polytechnic in Haveri, he expressed confidence that his administration has provided satisfactory governance to the populace. These comments, amid ongoing leadership disputes, could spark controversy within the Congress party.

When asked if he would fulfill his entire term as Chief Minister, Siddaramaiah replied that such decisions rest with the party's high command.

Regarding the Hubballi incident involving a woman BJP worker, the Chief Minister noted that when police attempted to detain a woman named Sujatha Hande, she stripped herself and attacked the officers.

“An FIR has been lodged against her for biting the police during questioning, with over ten women officers present. It is crucial that no one takes the law into their own hands; strict legal repercussions will follow,” he asserted.

Siddaramaiah also announced the completion of the Haveri Medical College, which was developed at a cost of approximately Rs 500 crore.

“I initiated this project, and I am proud to inaugurate it myself. The third student batch is already in session,” he stated.

In response to BJP's claims that his government has depleted the state treasury, he accused the BJP of being skilled in deception.

He explained that the Union government implemented GST and collected a tax rate of 24% for eight years, only to later declare tax reductions.

“Karnataka suffers an annual loss of Rs 10,000 to Rs 12,000 crore, with a projected loss of Rs 5,000 to Rs 6,000 crore this year alone,” he mentioned.

He pointed out that while the state contributes around Rs 4.5 lakh crore in taxes, it only receives Rs 60,000 to Rs 70,000 crore in return, translating to just 14 paise back for every rupee paid.

Siddaramaiah criticized the Centre for not releasing Rs 5,300 crore for the Upper Bhadra project and noted that the 15th Finance Commission had recommended Rs 5,495 crore for the state, which remains unreleased.

“No funds were allocated for the Peripheral Ring Road project or for lake development in Bengaluru, each requiring Rs 3,000 crore. Nothing was provided,” he lamented.

He questioned why the BJP failed to complete the medical college despite being in power for four years, asserting, “We accomplished it after taking charge.”

Addressing demands by BJP MLA Janardhana Reddy and former minister B. Sriramulu for a CBI inquiry into the Ballari case, he mentioned that KPCC president D.K. Shivakumar had visited the site and held discussions recently.

He alleged that unrest in Ballari and the death of an individual were instigated by the act of displaying a banner.

On accusations that the Anna Bhagya scheme is being exploited for trade, Siddaramaiah confirmed that a decision has been made to include other essential items along with 5 kg of rice under the program.