Karnataka CM Targets BJP and JD(S) Over Guarantee Schemes During Temple Visit

Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar stated on November 8, 2026, that the people of the State realize opposition parties want to stop the government's guarantee schemes if they come to power.

Scheme Defense

Speaking to reporters in Hassan after visiting the Hasanamba temple with his wife Usha and the Puradamma temple at Beekanahalli, Mr. Shivakumar defended the welfare programs by stating they are successfully reaching all eligible beneficiaries. He explained that the Congress government introduced these measures to counter the heavy price rise caused by higher fuel prices, noting that the state also provides a ₹5,000 input subsidy to farmers and spends ₹30,000 crore on free power for irrigation pump sets. Addressing the recent hike in milk prices, he maintained that local rates remain lower than those in other states.

Political Criticism

The Chief Minister criticized the BJP for failing to secure central funds for Karnataka, failing to stop rising diesel and petrol prices, and ignoring the genuine demands of sugarcane growers. Meanwhile, internal friction surfaced within the ruling party as Congress leaders, led by former Minister B. Shivaram, raised slogans against district in-charge Minister K.M. Shivalinge Gowda. Mr. Shivaram accused the in-charge minister of ignoring local leaders and failing to hold meetings with defeated candidates to strengthen the party organisation in the district.

Context

Welfare guarantee schemes and agricultural subsidies form a major part of political campaigning and state budgets across India. Tensions between state-level ministers and local party leaders often arise over administrative control and district-level organization.