Karnataka State Budget: A ‘Huge Zero’ Marked by Debt and Neglect, Claims Sunil Kumar
Bangalore: Former minister and Karkala MLA V Sunil Kumar has sharply criticized the state budget, calling its overall essence a “huge zero.” In a press release issued today, Kumar lamented what he described as Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s prioritization of coining new phrases over creating meaningful new schemes.
Kumar stated that while the Chief Minister proudly announced the budget was designed on the “11 G” model, analysis reveals it to be a budget of “11 lies.” He accused Siddaramaiah of imposing an unprecedented debt burden on the state, with massive borrowings of Rs 1,32,000 crore. This, according to Kumar, has increased the state’s total liabilities to a concerning Rs 8,24,389 crore. He further highlighted the reduction in capital expenditure to Rs 74,682 crore, arguing that these factors make it difficult to consider the budget within the limits of fiscal discipline. Kumar expressed serious concerns about the long-term future of Karnataka, suggesting that Siddaramaiah is pushing the state into a deep debt trap.
The former minister also voiced strong disapproval of the budget’s lack of provisions for the development of the coastal region. He noted the unmet demand for a new medical college and the absence of allocated funds for west-flowing river projects. Kumar criticized the continued limitation of urban development schemes to Bengaluru, which he says reflects the government’s insincere commitment to its “Beyond Bengaluru” plan. He stated that expectations for clarity on issues such as the comprehensive development of the coastal region, a separate industrial cluster, tourism development, and IT investments were unmet.
Consequently, Kumar labeled the budget “anti-coastal.” He summarized Siddaramaiah’s budget approach as “playing to the gallery.”