Amid an intense nationwide discussion on the VB-G RAM G scheme, BJP leader and Leader of the Opposition in the Karnataka Assembly, R Ashoka, launched a sharp attack on the Siddaramaiah-led Karnataka government and the Congress party, questioning the state’s financial capacity and intent. Ashoka claimed that Karnataka’s economic situation has deteriorated to such an extent that the government is unable to meet its 40 percent funding share required under the new scheme.
Speaking to reporters, Ashoka said that the revised funding structure mandates a 60:40 cost-sharing arrangement between the Centre and the states. However, he alleged that the Congress government in Karnataka does not even have the financial resources to contribute its 40 percent share. According to him, this reflects the empty state of the government’s treasury and highlights serious mismanagement of public finances.
Ashoka further accused the Congress of previously misappropriating funds under the older MGNREGA scheme. He claimed that the replacement of MGNREGA with the VB-G RAM G scheme by the central government has brought in greater transparency and reduced scope for corruption, implying that this shift has made the Congress uncomfortable.
Drawing a comparison with earlier governments, Ashoka said that during the tenure of the Manmohan Singh-led UPA government, the total allocation for MGNREGA stood at around two lakh crore rupees. In contrast, he claimed that the current central government has increased allocations to nearly eight lakh crore rupees, projecting it as a sign of stronger commitment and better financial management.
He also touched upon the broader issue of cost-sharing between the Centre and the states, pointing out that in several major infrastructure projects such as railways and metro networks, states routinely share expenses with the central government. According to him, opposing the VB-G RAM G scheme on funding grounds is therefore unjustified.
Continuing his criticism, Ashoka said that the much-publicised five guarantee schemes of the Congress government in Karnataka have failed to deliver. He alleged that the government does not even have sufficient funds to fully implement the Griha Lakshmi scheme, which, according to him, explains why it is struggling to contribute financially to the new rural employment programme. He remarked that the funding burden has become unbearable for the state government.
Ashoka urged the Congress to stop what he described as unnecessary debates and instead accept and implement the VB-G RAM G scheme, arguing that it would ultimately benefit the people.
The BJP leader also targeted senior Congress leader KC Venugopal, accusing him of using Karnataka’s funds to bankroll election campaigns in other states. Ashoka alleged that the Karnataka government is functioning under external control and lacks autonomy, claiming that Venugopal effectively acts as a “super chief minister.”
He further accused the Congress of double standards on regional issues, alleging that while the party raises its voice selectively, it remains silent on matters concerning the protection of Kannada language and culture in neighbouring states. According to Ashoka, Karnataka’s financial resources are being exploited for political gains elsewhere, while genuine state interests are ignored.
