Mangaluru: Amid complaints from BJP legislators across Karnataka over alleged delays in the release of development funds, Puttur Congress MLA Ashok Kumar Rai on Monday asserted that his constituency has received substantial financial support from the Siddaramaiah-led State government. Addressing a press conference, Rai said a total of ₹2,259 crore has been sanctioned for development works in Puttur since the present government assumed office.
Providing a year-wise break-up, the MLA said the government approved ₹1,479 crore during 2023–24, followed by ₹529 crore in 2024–25 and ₹251 crore in the current financial year, 2025–26. He added that development works worth nearly ₹300 crore are currently in progress across the constituency.
“These figures clearly show that the government is committed to balanced development and has ensured timely sanctioning of funds for Puttur,” Rai said, countering opposition claims of fund discrimination.
Major health infrastructure planned
A key highlight of the proposed development is the plan to establish a government medical college in Puttur, along with a 400-bed hospital. Rai said that an estimated ₹450 crore is expected to be sanctioned for the hospital component alone.
“Once the detailed project report (DPR) receives approval from the finance department, the total sanctioned funds for Puttur during my tenure could go up to ₹2,709 crore,” he said.
The proposed medical college and hospital are expected to significantly improve healthcare access not only for Puttur residents but also for people from neighbouring taluks and districts, reducing their dependence on distant medical facilities.
Road infrastructure projects underway
The MLA highlighted several major road development projects that have either been sanctioned or are in progress. According to Rai, the government has approved ₹10 crore for constructing a four-lane concrete road from Kabaka to Vitla. An additional ₹6 crore has been sanctioned for upgrading the Public Works Department (PWD) road connecting Bettampady and Panaje.
Another major project includes the conversion of the Puttur–Uppinangady road into a four-lane concrete road at an estimated cost of ₹12 crore. Rai said these projects would improve regional connectivity, facilitate smoother transport of agricultural produce, and boost economic activity in the area.
Releasing a detailed list of ongoing and proposed development works, the MLA said infrastructure upgrades were being prioritised to support long-term growth.
Progress on tenders and execution
Rai also provided details on the implementation side of development projects. He said that the tender process for 629 projects, collectively valued at ₹50 crore, has been completed during the current year.
“Work orders have been issued to five contractors, and already 13% of the sanctioned funds have been released,” he said, adding that the administration is monitoring progress to ensure timely execution.
He emphasised that the focus was not only on sanctioning funds but also on ensuring that projects move swiftly from paper to the ground.
Allocations for temples and minority welfare
Addressing questions on sector-wise allocations, Rai said the government has earmarked ₹8 crore for development works in Hindu temples within the Puttur constituency. He noted that this allocation was higher than what had been provided by previous governments.
In addition, ₹9 crore has been allocated for welfare and development programmes benefiting minority communities. “These allocations show that the government is committed to inclusive development and cultural preservation,” he said.
No discrimination in fund allocation, says MLA
Responding to criticism from the opposition, Rai asserted that the Congress-led government had not discriminated against any constituency in the allocation of development funds. He said the government had reserved ₹50 crore for each of the State’s 224 MLAs to ensure equitable development across Karnataka.
“Development is being carried out without bias. The figures speak for themselves,” Rai said, adding that Puttur’s progress was a result of consistent follow-up and effective coordination with various departments.
Political context
The MLA’s remarks come at a time when several BJP legislators have accused the State government of delaying or selectively releasing funds for development works in opposition-held constituencies. Rai’s statement appears aimed at countering these allegations by presenting Puttur as an example of effective fund utilisation under the current administration.
Political observers note that infrastructure and healthcare projects are likely to become key talking points as parties position themselves ahead of future elections.
Conclusion
With over ₹2,259 crore already sanctioned and more projects in the pipeline, Puttur is witnessing a significant phase of infrastructure and social development, according to MLA Ashok Kumar Rai. If the proposed medical college and hospital receive final approvals, the total investment in the constituency could cross ₹2,700 crore. As projects move into execution, their timely completion will be crucial in translating sanctioned funds into tangible benefits for the people of Puttur.