Mysuru, April 24: H.D. Kumaraswamy, the Union Minister for Heavy Industries and Steel, has asserted that the Congress guarantee schemes have severely weakened Karnataka’s economy, pushing the state and others towards financial crisis.
After participating in temple-related events, Kumaraswamy stated that while giving women ₹2,000 may seem beneficial, citizens should question where the government is sourcing this money.
Referring to Sri Lanka’s economic crisis, he warned that mismanagement could lead Karnataka down a similar path. He alleged that the government is incurring significant debt for these guarantee schemes, with the state’s debt already reaching ₹7.26 lakh crore. This translates to a burden of at least ₹1 lakh on each of Karnataka’s 6.3 crore residents.
Kumaraswamy expressed his readiness to debate this claim on any platform and challenged the state government to engage in discussions if they have the courage. He noted that the impact of these guarantee schemes has depleted the state treasury, making it difficult for the government to pay its employees on time. He also pointed out that the Congress government in Himachal Pradesh, which came to power on similar promises, has economically weakened that state as well.
He claimed that reports indicate salary cuts for officials, including the Chief Secretary, raising concerns that Karnataka might face a similar situation. Questioning the effectiveness of cash assistance, he asked if ₹2,000 is sufficient for a family’s sustenance.
Kumaraswamy alleged that despite the government providing funds under schemes like ‘Griha Lakshmi,’ rising prices and increased taxes are diminishing families’ incomes. Furthermore, the government is accumulating excessive debt, placing a burden on future generations.
He participated in the inauguration of the Shri Melankatte Ganapati Temple in Basavanapura, Geradada, and Kenchanahalli villages, as well as the inauguration and consecration ceremonies of the Shri Basaveshwara Swamy Temple in Hosahagarahara. He performed special prayers at these temples.
During the Ganapati Temple inauguration, he expressed that it was a privilege to open the temple, describing the event, which included former minister S.R. Mahesh, as spiritually fulfilling. He noted that the temple, situated in nature, offers peace and devotion to the mind.
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