Karnataka CM Accuses Union Budget Of Neglecting Southern States

In a scathing critique of the Union Budget 2024-25, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah lambasted Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman for allegedly betraying the expectations of Karnataka and doing injustice to the state. Addressing reporters in Bengaluru, Siddaramaiah claimed that apart from Andhra Pradesh and Bihar, no other states in South India have received any benefits from the budget.

Siddaramaiah expressed disappointment over the unfulfilled demands and broken promises made to Karnataka. He highlighted the state’s allocation of Rs 5,000 crore for the Kalyana Karnataka region and the request for matching funds, which were not provided. The Chief Minister also criticized the budget for failing to address the long-standing demand of farmers for a law guaranteeing Minimum Support Price (MSP).

Furthermore, Siddaramaiah pointed out the significant reductions in allocations for key sectors compared to the February budget. The education sector saw a slight increase from Rs 1.21 lakh crore to Rs 1.25 lakh crore, while the IT and communication sector faced a reduction from Rs 1.37 lakh crore to Rs 1.16 lakh crore. The Chief Minister also highlighted the cuts in funds for education, health, and defence sectors, as well as the lack of previously announced funds for the Peripheral Ring Road and Upper Bhadra Project.

Siddaramaiah accused the budget of betraying the development of SC/ST and minority communities by significantly reducing the allocated funds. He questioned the purpose of the pre-budget meeting, stating that the Finance Minister’s invitation seemed futile given the lack of consideration for Karnataka’s demands.

The Chief Minister also criticized the five Union Ministers from Karnataka, alleging that they have failed to secure any benefits for the state. Siddaramaiah asserted that the budget is devoid of any assurances or implementation of promises made in the previous budget, casting doubt on the feasibility of the mentioned industrial corridor.

In conclusion, Karnataka’s Chief Minister launched a scathing attack on the Union Budget, accusing it of neglecting the state and the southern region as a whole, while favoring Andhra Pradesh and Bihar to secure the Prime Minister’s position. Siddaramaiah’s remarks highlight the growing discontent among southern states over the perceived imbalance in the allocation of resources and attention by the Central government.