Siddaramaiah slams Centre, seeks fair share for Karnataka
Raichur, June 23 (UNI) Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Monday urged the central government to ensure a fair allocation of funds to the state under the 16th Finance Commission, claiming Karnataka lost nearly Rs 80,000 crore in devolution when compared to the 14th Finance Commission period.
Addressing reporters in Raichur, Siddaramaiah accused BJP MPs from the state of "failing" to defend Karnataka's fiscal interests, stating, 'Not a single BJP MP has spoken against this injustice.'
The CM specifically targeted Union Minister Pralhad Joshi, accusing him of not securing the release of Rs 11,495 crore recommended as a special grant for Karnataka. 'Despite his closeness to the Prime Minister, he has failed the state. He has no moral right to speak on Karnataka's welfare,' Siddaramaiah charged.
Reiterating Karnataka's long-standing demand for a special grant for the development of the Kalyana Karnataka region, Siddaramaiah said the state government already spends Rs 5,000 crore annually for the area's development, and urged the Centre to contribute its share. He also said the state would consider setting up a dedicated ministry for the region to bolster progress.
Responding to various issues, the Chief Minister acknowledged Minister HK Patil's suggestion to set up a special court to expedite illegal mining cases and recover pending dues.
Recalling his past efforts, Siddaramaiah cited his role in raising the issue in the Assembly and participating in the Bellary padayatra, and noted that the Santosh Hegde Lokayukta report still awaits adequate follow-up.
Siddaramaiah also addressed concerns from Congress MLA Raju Kage about development deficits in Kagwad, assuring that he would hold discussions with the legislator and prioritise special grants for constituencies in need.
On allegations by MLA Belur Gopalakrishna regarding irregularities in housing schemes, he said the government would seek more information, and added that MLA B.R. Patil is scheduled to meet him on June 25 to discuss matters concerning the Housing Department.
Meanwhile, in Bengaluru, Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar told reporters that both the Chief Minister and the Housing Minister would issue a detailed clarification over BR Patil's allegations of corruption in the Rajiv Gandhi Housing Corporation.
He said accusations, including those from Gram Panchayat members about bribe-based allotments, would be examined thoroughly. UNI BDN SSP
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