Kalaburagi witnessed a dual event on Saturday as Minister Priyank Kharge inaugurated an Indira Canteen and launched a sharp critique against the central government's fiscal policies. The minister, who holds the portfolios for Rural Development and Panchayat Raj and is in charge of the district, accused the Centre of withholding crucial funds for Karnataka's development projects and linked the declining value of the rupee to a failing national economy.
Allegations of Financial Neglect and Economic Mismanagement
Addressing a press conference at the Kalaburagi Deputy Commissioner's office hall, Kharge presented a litany of grievances. He pointed to the closure of a staggering 2 lakh Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) across the country as a sign of deep economic distress. "If you see the value of the rupee falling, do you think the country's economic condition is good?" he questioned, challenging the narrative of a robust economy.
He further criticized the government's approach, alleging preferential treatment to large industrialists. "While everything was given to Adani and Ambani, only Swachh Bharat and Mann Ki Baat were left for the people," Kharge stated, adding that the Prime Minister had forgotten his fundamental responsibilities towards the citizens.
Specific Projects Hampered by Fund Delays
Kharge provided detailed figures to substantiate his claims of central neglect. A major point of contention was the Jal Jeevan Mission. He revealed that out of a Rs 2,500 crore grant, the Centre had released only Rs 517 crore. The state government, he said, stepped in to pay the remaining amount to protect public interest. However, with fresh grants not being released, the project is now lagging behind again. The state currently requires a grant of Rs 13,000 crore for water-related works.
"It only wants the tax paid by Kannadigas, but it does not want to give back to us," he charged, framing the issue as one of unfair fiscal federalism.
A Long List of Pending Dues and Schemes
The minister's allegations extended beyond the water mission. He listed several other areas where funds were allegedly withheld:
- Grants due under the 15th Finance Commission have not been released.
- Funds for caretakers working under the state's 'Koosina Mane' scheme under NREGA have not been provided.
- The central share for a Rs 6,000 crore drinking water scheme for Kalaburagi and Bidar districts remains pending.
- There is non-cooperation in releasing funds required for GST and National Highway projects.
Kharge called upon Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, who is a Rajya Sabha member from Karnataka, and other BJP MPs from the state to address these pressing issues. The event was also attended by Deputy Commissioner B. Fouzia Tarannum, MLA Allamprabhu Patil, City Corporation Mayor Varsha Raajiv Jaane, and Commissioner Avinash Shindhe.
