Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman criticized the Karnataka government, led by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, for protesting against the Centre’s alleged injustice in tax devolution. Sitharaman accused Siddaramaiah’s administration of promoting separatism and spreading false narratives. She refuted claims of unpaid GST compensation and highlighted increased funds allocation to Karnataka.
Sitharaman, a Rajya Sabha member from Karnataka, refuted allegations of fund discrimination. She cited figures indicating higher fund allocation under the 15th Finance Commission compared to the previous period. Despite pandemic-induced revenue drops, Karnataka is slated to receive more funds in the current period.
Addressing specific grievances, Sitharaman clarified that GST compensation dues were settled by June 2022, with Karnataka receiving over Rs 1 lakh crore. She dismissed claims of withheld drought relief funds, asserting proper allocation. The Upper Bhadra Project funds were also assured.
Also Read: Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka Protest Over funds In Delhi
The protest, led by Siddaramaiah and Congress leaders, aimed to rectify alleged losses under the 15th Finance Commission, amounting to Rs 1.87 lakh crore. Siddaramaiah emphasized the protest’s purpose as rectifying discrimination rather than fostering regional divides.
Sitharaman’s rebuttal portrayed the Karnataka government’s claims as politically motivated and factually flawed. She maintained that Karnataka received fair treatment in fund allocation, discrediting accusations of neglect. The spat underscores tensions between regional governments and the central administration over financial distribution.
Despite political rhetoric, Sitharaman’s detailed rebuttal aimed to quell allegations of bias and reassure Karnataka of equitable treatment.
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