Mysuru, 19 July (H.S.) :
Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Saturday asserted that his government has successfully reached the doorsteps of the people and countered the opposition’s “false propaganda” with evidence of developmental work.
Speaking at an event in Mysuru marking the Karnataka government’s two-year achievement celebrations, Siddaramaiah inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for development projects worth ₹2,578 crore.
Taking a direct dig at the opposition, he said, Let the BJP and JD(S) come together on one platform for an open debate on development. I am ready to join. Our government’s achievements will answer their lies.
He accused the BJP of spreading misinformation that the government lacks funds for development. Today’s projects alone are proof that we are financially capable and committed to progress, he added.
Criticizing the BJP, Siddaramaiah said, They have never come to power in Karnataka with a clear mandate. Every time, they have grabbed power through backdoor tactics like 'Operation Kamala'.
He also targeted JD(S) leader H.D. Kumaraswamy, stating, He has never formed the government on his own strength. Without the love and trust of the people, they have no moral right to criticize the Congress-led government.
CM Siddaramaiah further alleged that neither BJP nor JD(S) have the courage to confront Prime Minister Modi over the financial injustice meted out to Karnataka by the Centre. Though the state contributes significantly to the national tax pool, very little comes back to Karnataka. Central ministers and MPs, including Kumaraswamy, Prahlad Joshi, and Basavaraj Bommai, remain silent on this issue, he said.
He emphasized that the state government has not just implemented five major guarantee schemes but also allocated lakhs of crores towards development. The benefits are not limited to Congress supporters; even BJP and JD(S) voters receive government assistance every day and every month, he stated.
Referring to the Shakti scheme, which provides free bus travel for women, Siddaramaiah proudly mentioned, I personally handed over a ticket to the 500th female passenger under the scheme — it reflects our government’s commitment.
Highlighting the Congress party's legacy, he said, From Jawaharlal Nehru to Indira Gandhi, Rajiv Gandhi, and Manmohan Singh — it was Congress governments that implemented landmark programs for social justice. Schemes like the Food Security Act, Right to Education, and MGNREGA were all introduced during our tenure.
Let the BJP show what they have achieved in their rule, he challenged.
In a sharp ideological attack, Siddaramaiah accused BJP of conspiring to alter the Constitution and labelled them as Manuvadis who oppose social justice and the empowerment of backward communities. The people of this country and the Congress party will defeat such conspiracies, he declared.
Hindusthan Samachar / Rakesh Mahadevappa
