BJP Chief Whip in the Karnataka Legislative Council, N. Ravi Kumar, has criticized the 2025-26 state budget presented by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, accusing it of neglecting farmers and marginalized communities. Kumar termed the budget a “Rs 4,09,549-lakh loan budget,” emphasizing that it fails to allocate grants for farmers despite the significant number of agriculture-dependent families in the state.
Kumar specifically pointed out the absence of funding for key irrigation projects like the Upper Krishna Project, Tungabhadra, Bhima, and Yettinahole, which are critical for improving agricultural productivity and addressing water scarcity. He argued that these omissions reflect a lack of commitment to the agricultural sector, which is crucial to the livelihood of many in the state.
The BJP leader also accused the Chief Minister of neglecting Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST) communities by diverting funds intended for their welfare. “Despite enacting a law that ensures SC/ST funds are used exclusively for their benefit, the government has diverted Rs 13,913 crore out of Rs 41,000 crore allocated for these communities, towards the implementation of Congress’ five guarantees,” Kumar said.
He further claimed that significant amounts—Rs 39,000 crore in 2023-24 and Rs 11,144 crore in 2024-25—had been misallocated, undermining the welfare of SC/ST communities. In response, the BJP has been protesting across the state, demanding that the diverted funds be returned.
When the Assembly session resumes on Monday, Kumar confirmed that BJP members will raise the issue, urging the government to rectify the diversion of funds meant for SC/ST welfare.
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