Former CM Bommai blasts Karnataka budget: ‘Directionless, deficit-ridden plan will push state into debt’

Former Karnataka Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai on Friday criticised the state budget presented by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, calling it a “directionless” and “zero-progress” plan. Speaking to reporters in Haveri, Bommai warned that the budget could push the state toward heavy debt and harm its long-term finances.

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“This budget has no vision. It will take the state back ten to fifteen years,” Bommai said. He expressed disappointment, noting that he did not expect such a budget from a Chief Minister who has presented the budget 17 times.

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Concerns over taxes and deficit

Bommai highlighted that the budget introduces new taxes and has a deficit of ₹22,000 crore. He argued this approach would create financial stress and have far-reaching effects on Karnataka’s economy.

Irrigation and development funding shortfall

The former CM pointed out specific funding gaps. According to him, only ₹22,000 crore was allocated for irrigation, whereas ₹25,000 crore should have been allotted for the Krishna Upper River Project, which received no funds. Bommai also criticised allocations for health and rural development, calling them insufficient and questioning the government’s priorities.

Internal reservation controversy

Bommai addressed the confusion over internal reservation in Karnataka. He noted that the law was approved during the Belagavi session and received the Governor’s approval. “How can it be said that the reservation rate of 17% will not be implemented?” he asked, adding that even the Advocate General had filed an affidavit confirming it.

He emphasised that no court order has blocked the reservation and accused the government of using this as an excuse, which he claimed is causing injustice to the Dalit community, who are strongly opposing the decision.

Bommai warned that if the government delays implementing internal reservation, the BJP will continue to fight vigorously for its immediate enforcement.