In a scathing critique of the BJP-led Centre's approach to development in Karnataka, Randeep Singh Surjewala, the AICC general secretary and Karnataka in-charge, compared it to an "empty vessel," alleging that it had failed to fulfil its promises to the state.
Surjewala's remarks came during a press conference held in Hubballi ahead of the second phase of Lok Sabha polls scheduled for April 26.
During the press conference, Surjewala brandished an empty vessel, symbolising what he described as the BJP's lacklustre performance in Karnataka. He accused the BJP of neglecting the state and asserted that the people of Karnataka were prepared to return the "empty vessel" to the BJP in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections.
Surjewala lambasted the BJP and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, asserting that they had done little for Karnataka during their tenure. He claimed that the BJP's animosity toward the state was evident in its failure to release funds for drought relief, despite repeated pleas from the Karnataka government.
Highlighting the contrast between the Congress and BJP models of governance in Karnataka, Surjewala praised the Congress' track record of fulfilling promises, citing initiatives such as Grihalakshmi, Griha Jyoti, Shakti, Anna Bhagya, and Yuva Nidhi, which aimed to address various socio-economic challenges faced by the people of Karnataka.
Surjewala accused the BJP of withholding funds owed to Karnataka under the 15th Finance Commission and obstructing key infrastructure projects like Mekedatu and Mahadayi Kalasa-Banduri. He alleged that PM Modi had appropriated the term "guarantee" from the Congress without delivering on the promises associated with it.
In response to the BJP's shortcomings, Surjewala announced new guarantees for Karnataka, including financial assistance for households, youth, and universal health coverage. He urged voters to support the Congress in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections to ensure that Karnataka's interests were adequately represented.
The Lok Sabha elections for 28 seats in Karnataka are scheduled to take place over two phases, with polling on April 26 and May 7. Surjewala emphasised the significance of these elections and urged voters to hold the BJP accountable for its actions.
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