Will Remain in Politics as Long as People Bless Me: Siddaramaiah
Speaking to reporters in Haveri, Siddaramaiah said, “I have come this far because of the blessings of the people, and I will continue in politics as long as their support remains. My administration has delivered satisfaction.”
Haveri: Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Wednesday said that political life is sustained only by the blessings of the people and asserted that he would remain in politics as long as that support continues.
Speaking to reporters in Haveri, Siddaramaiah said, “I have come this far because of the blessings of the people, and I will continue in politics as long as their support remains. My administration has delivered satisfaction.”
Asked whether he would complete a full term as Chief Minister, Siddaramaiah said the party high command would take a decision on that.
On the Ballari incident, Siddaramaiah said that the installation of banners was a provocation, which led to unrest and the death of a person in Ballari.
“The BJP is unable to control its jealousy,” he alleged.
On GST-related losses, the Chief Minister said the Centre itself implemented GST and collected taxes at 24 percent for eight years before claiming it had reduced rates.
“Karnataka alone loses Rs 10,000 to Rs 12,000 crore every year. This year, the loss will be Rs 5,000 to Rs 6,000 crore. Who is responsible for this?” he asked.
He said Karnataka contributes around Rs 4.5 lakh crore in taxes but receives only Rs 60,000 to Rs 70,000 crore in return.
“For every rupee we give, we get back just 14 paise,” he said, alleging that the Centre had failed to release funds for several projects, including Rs 5,300 crore for the Upper Bhadra project, Rs 5,495 crore recommended by the 15th Finance Commission, Rs 3,000 crore for the Peripheral Ring Road, and Rs 3,000 crore for lake development in Bengaluru.
Responding to BJP allegations that his government had emptied the state treasury, Siddaramaiah said the BJP had no limits when it came to spreading falsehoods.
