In response to the presentation of the Union Budget, DK Suresh, a Member of Parliament representing the Congress party in the Lok Sabha, ignited controversy on Thursday by expressing discontent over what he perceived as the neglect of South India's interests. Specifically addressing the situation in Karnataka, he lamented the perceived inadequacy of funds allocated by the Central government. Suresh asserted that this apparent injustice was particularly glaring in the context of budgetary allocations being diverted away from the southern regions to benefit those in the northern parts of the country.
In the aftermath of the Budget presentation, Suresh articulated a sentiment of disillusionment with the current state of affairs, suggesting that the disparities in resource distribution between the northern and southern regions warranted serious consideration. He even went as far as suggesting the notion of demanding a "separate country" for South India, attributing such a drastic proposition to the purported marginalization that the region has endured under the dominance of Hindi-speaking states.
Suresh's remarks drew swift criticism from Tejasvi Surya, a Member of Parliament representing the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), who accused the Congress of resorting to divisive tactics reminiscent of colonial-era "Divide and Rule" strategies. Surya contended that Suresh's assertions were contrary to the efforts of national unity promoted by Congress leader Rahul Gandhi.
Echoing Surya's sentiments, R Ashoka, a prominent BJP figure in Karnataka, condemned Suresh's comments as a manifestation of Congress's divisive agenda. Ashoka emphasized the need for parliamentarians to prioritize the integrity and unity of the nation, rather than propagating notions of fragmentation.
However, DK Shivakumar, Karnataka's Deputy Chief Minister and the state's Congress chief, offered a somewhat mitigating perspective, characterizing Suresh's remarks as a reflection of public sentiment fueled by perceived neglect. While affirming his commitment to the idea of a unified India, Shivakumar acknowledged the frustrations stemming from disparities in resource allocation.
Subsequently, DK Suresh sought to clarify his stance, emphasizing his unwavering commitment to India's unity while reiterating his concerns about the equitable distribution of funds. Through a series of posts on social media, he underscored the need for fair treatment of southern states, particularly Karnataka, in budgetary allocations and developmental initiatives. Despite his vocal criticism, Suresh reaffirmed his allegiance to the nation as a proud Indian and member of the Congress party.
