CM Siddaramaiah, Union Minister Shekawat in war of words over ‘Why no love for Karnataka’ post

NEW DELHI: After Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s ‘Why no love for Karnataka’ post against the central government, alleging indifference to the state’s needs, sparked a controversy, Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekawat hit back saying that the CM’s briefing team seems to be doing a “sorry job”.

The Union Minister said that it doesn’t suit a CM to wreak havoc on people’s lives by spreading false rumours and misinformation.

In a post on X, Minister Shekwat said, “We know it is tradition for Congress to spread false rumour & misinformation. But it isn’t becoming of a CM to wreak havoc in peoples lives by doing so. You are very well aware of the status of the Mekedatu project – if not, let us remind you, since your briefing team seems to be doing a sorry job. Latest status stands this: Discussion on the DPR of the Mekedatu project was included as an agenda item during various meetings of CWMA”.

Dear Shri. @siddaramaiah ,

We know it is tradition for Congress to spread false rumour & misinformation. But it isn’t becoming of a CM to wreak havoc in peoples lives by doing so.

You are very well aware of the status of the Mekedatu project – if not, let us remind you, since… pic.twitter.com/Kqwgi30Bxp

— Gajendra Singh Shekhawat (@gssjodhpur) October 30, 2023

However, discussion on this issue could not take place due to lack of consensus among party states on this agenda item, he added. Shekwat also pointed out several schemes and projects undertaken by the Centre in favour of the state Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY).

“The DPRs of Kalasa and Bandura Nala scheme have already been approved by the Central Water Commission (CWC) with certain conditions and the same has been communicated to Govt of Karnataka. Of the 5 projects from Karnataka prioritised under Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY) — Accelerated Irrigation Benefits Programme during 2017-17, THREE stand completed. Two are ongoing & Rs. 1190.05 cr of the of Rs 1238.30 cr of Central assistance has already been released to date”, he said in the post.

He further accused the state government of not fully utilising the financial assistance provided under Atal Bhujal Yojana. “Under Atal Bhujal Yojana, Karnataka has already received Rs. 629.54 crore from the Centre, but spent only Rs 274.05 cr as of 28.10.2023. What explains this?” he asked.

In a series of tweets earlier this week, CM Siddaramaiah launched a scathing attack against the Union Government dwelling through various issues including the state’s water issues.

“The @narendramodi-led Union Government hasn’t addressed Karnataka’s water issues, despite rainfall deficits. No Ktaka BJP MP has also supported the state’s water interests. Projects like Mekedatu and the Mahadayi River are pending the Centre’s approval. The state’s initiative, the Upper Krishna Project for north Karnataka’s irrigation, awaits a gazette notification and national status from the Centre. Do you want to inflict more thirst on Kannadigas, dear Prime Minister?,” CM Siddaramaiah said in one of his posts.

Demanding fair treatment, the Chief Minister also alleged that the state faced rejection by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman during the 15th Finance Commission.

“The special grant of Rs 5,495 crore for Karnataka, as outlined in the interim report of the 15th Finance Commission, faced an unfortunate rejection by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman. It’s a matter of justice and equitable distribution of resources. Karnataka deserves fair treatment”, he said.

Also, calling for a unified campaign for the state under the hashtag “Answer Madi Modi” (Answer us Modi), the Chief Minister urged the people to join in the “call for justice”.

“As we embark on the next chapter post our golden jubilee, it is imperative that the essence of inclusive growth is not just a slogan but a lived reality. Join us in our call for justice. Amplify your voice with #AnswerMadiModi. This Kannada Rajyotsava, let’s come together and champion a brighter, more equitable future for Karnataka,” the CM added. (ANI)