Union Minister Pralhad Joshi launched a sharp criticism against the Congress high command on Sunday, labeling them as helpless in resolving the ongoing chief ministerial dispute that has been plaguing Karnataka's political landscape.
Minister's Strong Words After Mann Ki Baat
The minister made these remarks while speaking to reporters after watching Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Mann Ki Baat programme live at Sri Hanumanth Temple in Bengeri, Hubballi. Joshi didn't mince words when he described the Congress central leadership as completely ineffective in handling the internal power struggle within the state party.
Joshi specifically highlighted the growing corruption in Bengaluru, pointing to irregularities in granting building permissions as a major concern. He expressed serious worries about how the continuous fight for the chief minister's position was adversely affecting governance in the state.
Financial Crisis and Governance Issues
The Union minister drew attention to Karnataka's precarious financial situation, revealing that the state government owes Rs 285 crore to the Hubballi-Dharwad Municipal Corporation (HDMC). He further criticized the administration for not paying civic workers directly, creating additional hardships for those serving at the grassroots level.
Joshi emphasized that political instability amid these pressing issues was particularly damaging to the state's development. He pointed out that with both competing leaders being half idle due to the power tussle, essential governance matters were being neglected.
Call for Fresh Elections
The minister suggested a clear solution to the ongoing crisis. If the Congress party cannot govern effectively, Joshi demanded that the assembly should be dissolved for fresh elections. He argued that this would allow the people of Karnataka to choose a stable government capable of addressing the state's challenges.
In a pointed reference to Congress leadership, Joshi acknowledged AICC president Mallikarjun Kharge as a respected senior politician, but accused the party's central leadership of being controlled by what he termed as fake Gandhi and Vadra influences.
Regarding the Mann Ki Baat programme that preceded his press interaction, Joshi noted that the initiative successfully reaches millions across both traditional and digital platforms. He appreciated how the programme effectively showcases success stories of the Vocal for Local campaign and promotes indigenous products.
