Chief Minister Siddaramaiah criticized BJP leaders for their remarks claiming no development had taken place in Karnataka over the past year. Speaking to reporters at Mangaluru International Airport on May 21, en route to Guruvayankere in Dakshina Kannada district, Siddaramaiah refuted these claims, highlighting the economic strides made by the state.
Disputing Claims of Zero Development:
Siddaramaiah pointed out that the recently passed State Budget for 2024-25 amounted to ₹1.20 lakh crore, including funds allocated for implementing the government’s five guarantees. He questioned how BJP leaders could assert there was “shoonya abbhivrudhi” (zero development) when significant investments were being made.
Delivering on Promises:
The Chief Minister emphasized that the state government had fulfilled its promises over the past year. He argued that economic empowerment initiatives should also be considered as development, countering the BJP’s assertions.
Allocations for Irrigation Sector:
Siddaramaiah highlighted the substantial allocation of ₹18,000 crore for the irrigation sector in the budget, surpassing the allocation made by the previous BJP government. This, he argued, demonstrated the government’s commitment to infrastructure development.
Attending Final Rites of Belthangady MLA:
Siddaramaiah’s remarks were made en route to Guruvayankere, where he attended the final rites of Belthangady MLA K. Vasanth Bangera, who passed away on May 8.