Bengaluru (Karnataka) : Karnataka Minister Priyank Kharge on Monday accused the Central Government of discriminating against the state in the allocation of flood relief funds, alleging political bias in the distribution process. Kharge claimed that despite Karnataka’s significant contribution to the national economy, it continues to be “shortchanged” when it comes to fund devolution and disaster assistance.
Karnataka’s contribution ignored, says Kharge
Speaking to reporters, Kharge said Karnataka contributes 8.9 per cent to India’s GDP and remains among the highest GST-paying states in the country. However, he alleged that the state has not received its fair share of funds from the Union Government.
“They stifle us by not giving us funds, although we are one of the highest GST-collecting states. Our contribution to the GDP is more than 8.9%. Yet, when it comes to the devolution of funds and taxes, there is always unfair treatment of Karnataka,” Kharge stated.
Allegations of political favouritism
The Karnataka minister further alleged that the Centre favours BJP-ruled states in disaster relief allocation, calling the approved assistance “insufficient” under National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) norms.
“According to NDRF norms, it is not enough. We have reported huge losses, and while the BJP-ruled states get more, the other states are always shortchanged,” he remarked.
Kharge emphasised that the state had submitted detailed damage reports after heavy monsoon rains and floods, but the compensation received was far below what was required for rehabilitation and relief work.
Centre releases second instalment of SDRF funds
The minister’s remarks came a day after Union Home Minister Amit Shah approved an advance release of ₹1,950.80 crore as the second instalment of the Central share of the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF) to Karnataka and Maharashtra for the financial year 2025–26.
According to the Ministry of Home Affairs, out of the total amount, ₹384.40 crore was allocated to Karnataka and ₹1,566.40 crore to Maharashtra. The funds are aimed at providing immediate relief assistance to those affected by floods and heavy rainfall during the southwest monsoon.
The MHA statement said the Central Government remains committed to supporting states impacted by floods, landslides, and cloudbursts, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the guidance of Union Home Minister Amit Shah.
Political row over disaster fund distribution
Kharge’s comments have added to the ongoing debate between state governments and the Centre over the criteria used for fund allocation under disaster relief schemes. Opposition-ruled states have often accused the Centre of disparities in funding and political discrimination, particularly when it comes to assistance following natural calamities.
Meanwhile, Karnataka officials said they are in the process of assessing the total damages caused by the recent monsoon floods and would submit a revised memorandum to the Central Government seeking additional support.
Call for fair treatment
Kharge urged the Centre to adopt an equitable approach in fund allocation irrespective of the political alignment of state governments. “Relief assistance should not be a matter of politics; it is about people’s lives and livelihoods,” he said.
The state government has also announced that it will expedite relief and rehabilitation works in the worst-affected regions, while continuing to press the Centre for greater financial support under disaster management norms.