Karnataka’s guarantee schemes now a national model: Deputy CM D.K. Shivakumar

Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar on Saturday said that the five guarantee schemes of the State government have become a model for the entire country, and accused the BJP of copying the same in other states.

“Our popular guarantee schemes are now a model. The BJP called our schemes a big lie, and even the Prime Minister said that Karnataka would go bankrupt if they were implemented. But today, the same party has copied our schemes in Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Haryana, Delhi, and now in Bihar,” said Mr. Shivakumar, addressing the gathering at the ‘Sadhana Samavesha’ in Mysuru.

Taking a dig at the BJP and the JD(S) for their constant criticism of the Congress government, he said, “Our work will speak. So, we don’t give a heed to their criticism and continue to work for the people and the State, fulfilling promises we have made.”

‘Congress has silenced critics’

Stating that the Congress has silenced the Opposition parties with its works, Mr. Shivakumar said the ‘hasta’ (party’s hand symbol) has given strength to women through guarantees. “The government has given a befitting reply to its critics with its works. Each family gets around ₹5,000 a month through guarantees, ensuring financial stability,” he noted.

‘Prosperity to State’

The Deputy Chief Minister said that besides bringing development, the Congress party has brought prosperity to the State. “Thanks to good rains, ‘bagina’ was offered to Krishnaraja Sagar in June, which is historic since it happened after a gap of 90 years. Tomorrow, we are offering ‘bagina’ to Kabini, which is also full,” he added.

Continuing his tirade against the opposition, Mr. Shivakumar said that the BJP and the JD(S) could not organise ‘Sadhana Samaveshas’ as they could not fulfil promises like the Congress. “Along with guarantees, we are implementing development works, and the ‘samaveshas’ speak of our resolve,” he argued.

“The ‘samaveshas’ are nothing but a way of repaying our debt to the people for electing this government. We are indebted to them,” he added.

Development works

Clarifying that the government has money for development works, Mr. Shivakumar dismissed accusations of the Opposition regarding the same. “We launched works worth ₹5,000 crore in Kalyana Karnataka, and also in Indi this week. We announced works worth ₹3,000 crore during the Cabinet meeting in M.M. Hills, and today, in Mysuru, we are launching works worth ₹2,578 crore. Is this not development?” he said.

The Deputy Cheif Minister that said government schools are being developed with CSR funds of nearly ₹2,000 crore.

‘Elect us in 2028’

Mr. Shivakumar concluded his speech by urging the people to bring Congress back to power in 2028 so that the party continues to work for them and fulfil their aspirations. “Please elect us with a massive majority in 2028. The by-election results last year showed the people’s faith in the party,” he said.