Siddaramaiah Lays Foundation Stone for Bagalkot Medical College, Rebuts BJP Allegations
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah declared that the Karnataka government is steadfastly dedicated to eradicating regional inequalities in North Karnataka, emphasizing that the Congress administration is a "people's government" that delivers on its promises. Speaking at the foundation stone-laying ceremony for the Bagalkot Medical College and Research Institute, where he also inaugurated multiple development initiatives, Siddaramaiah clarified that this move stems from the 2025 budget announcement, not the bypoll.
Medical College Expansion and Development Priorities
"Since our government assumed power, we have conducted numerous foundation stone-laying and inauguration ceremonies to foster development across various districts," Siddaramaiah stated. He outlined ambitious plans to establish medical colleges and trauma centers in every district, with progress already made in approximately 25 districts. "Next year, we will take measures to set up a superspecialty hospital here in Bagalkot," he added, underscoring the government's healthcare focus.
Countering BJP's Criticism on Guarantee Schemes
The Chief Minister strongly refuted the BJP's accusations that guarantee schemes have drained funds for development. "These claims are far from the truth. Our government equally prioritizes guarantees and development," he asserted. Siddaramaiah revealed that around Rs 50,000 crore is allocated annually for guarantee schemes, with a total expenditure of Rs 1.2 lakh crore to date. He criticized the previous BJP regime, noting, "Despite being in power for four years, the BJP failed to establish a medical college in Bagalkot. Their malicious intent is to sow discord among castes and religions."
Compensation for UKP Project Evacuees
Siddaramaiah announced that the Congress government will provide compensation to evacuees of the Upper Krishna Project (UKP), a move he claimed the BJP neglected during its tenure. "The BJP showed no interest in offering compensation, which discouraged farmers from surrendering their land. Now, we have decided to provide land compensation in one lump sum," he explained. Funds have been allocated in this year's budget for Phase 3 of the UKP project, with provisions for additional resources later.
The government has set compensation rates at Rs 40 lakh for irrigated land and Rs 30 lakh for dry land for farmers who voluntarily give up their property. Siddaramaiah accused the BJP of spreading misinformation about this initiative, stating, "Compensation of Rs 446 crore is being disbursed for 900 acres across eight villages under the UKP project."
Irrigation Projects and Federal Challenges
Highlighting ongoing struggles, Siddaramaiah lamented the lack of necessary approvals from the Union government for key irrigation projects like UKP and Mahadayi. "Despite repeated appeals, the Modi government has not granted approvals, even though no court case is pending over Mahadayi," he said. He reaffirmed his administration's commitment to securing justice for North Karnataka residents, despite these hurdles.
Event Details and Dignitaries Present
The ceremony was attended by prominent figures including Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar, ministers HK Patil, Shivanand Patil, RB Timmapur, MB Patil, and Sharan Prakash Patil, along with various MLAs and MLCs. Prior to the event, Siddaramaiah visited the Siddarameshwar Mahasansthan Bhovi Gurupeetha in Navanagar, Bagalkot, underscoring the cultural and community engagement of his visit.
