Karnataka’s political landscape saw a moment of clarity on Thursday as Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar vowed to uphold all state guarantee schemes, even as he greenlit voluntary opt-outs by the prosperous. Answering questions at Bengaluru’s Vidhana Soudha, he dismissed any notions of program cancellations.
Shivakumar explained that professionals from IT giants and public servants have conveyed their disinterest in benefits like free power and cash transfers. ‘Voluntary exit by the rich is fine—no issue there,’ he said.
On persistent rumors of scheme closures, he was unequivocal: ‘No such proposal exists under any condition.’ He delved into operational challenges, revealing how funds and rations continue flowing to the accounts of the dead, necessitating tighter verification.
‘We’re facing difficulties in pinpointing deceased beneficiaries, but talks are on to resolve this,’ he noted, exempting the home lighting scheme from similar woes. This comes after some cabinet colleagues suggested excluding the wealthy, a view echoed by beneficiaries themselves.
‘Certain affluent individuals say they don’t need 200 free units or other perks. We’re examining it, but schemes stay intact,’ Shivakumar insisted, cautioning media against twisting his stance.
He also refuted links between guarantee spending and stalled development, teasing a slew of project launches in the forthcoming budget. This firm stance reinforces the Congress government’s dedication to its five guarantees, pivotal in their electoral triumph, amid economic debates.