BENGALURU:
How much debt did Siddaramaiah accumulate? What right does he have to criticize the Prime Minister’s handling of the country’s finances? These were the questions raised by HD Kumaraswamy, former Chief Minister and JD(S) State President, during a press conference in Bengaluru on Sunday.
Kumaraswamy pointed out that Siddaramaiah, who served as Chief Minister for five years, had borrowed a staggering amount of Rs 2,45,000 crore. He questioned the ethics of someone who had accumulated such a massive debt criticizing the Prime Minister for the country’s financial situation.
Furthermore, Kumaraswamy highlighted the current debt level of the state, which stands at Rs 5,71,600 crore. In the new budget, an additional Rs 85,815 crore has been allocated for borrowing. He criticized the government’s approach of borrowing Rs 56,000 crore every year, while also acknowledging the need to pay interest on these loans.
Kumaraswamy also raised concerns about the state’s financial system, with government officials themselves admitting to its chaotic state. He questioned whether this chaotic system would be extended to other states, such as Telangana.
In addition, Kumaraswamy criticized the Congress Party for its involvement in corrupt practices, citing instances of black money found in the houses of politicians during recent income tax raids. He accused the party of prioritizing money over merit, with the high command instructing the Chief Minister, Deputy Chief Minister, and ministers to pay more in order to retain their positions.
In conclusion, Kumaraswamy emphasized that power in the state is only held by those who are willing to pay for it, rather than being based on merit or power sharing. He called for a change in this corrupt system and urged the public to consider these issues during the upcoming parliament elections.
