Debate Heats Up Over Congress's 'Shakti Scheme' Promises

Union Minister Pralhad Joshi criticizes Congress for allegedly making unachievable promises to gain votes, in light of Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge's call for budget-consistent election guarantees. The debate intensifies with differing opinions in Karnataka, as the Shakti scheme's future becomes a focal point of discussion.

Union Minister Pralhad Joshi launched a scathing attack on Congress regarding the 'Shakti scheme', alleging that the party's promises are mere vote-catching tactics. He accused Congress of making unrealistic guarantees without any intent to fulfill them, highlighting a rift between the Chief Minister, Deputy CM, and other ministers over budgetary limitations and implementation.

This criticism follows a cautionary note from Congress National President Mallikarjun Kharge, urging party units facing elections to announce budget-based guarantees. Kharge underscored the necessity for fiscal prudence, warning against unplanned actions that could result in financial strain, harm to reputation, and long-term ramifications for the community.

Kharge's remarks were spurred by Karnataka's reconsideration of the Shakti scheme, which offers free bus travel for women. Despite recent discussions, Karnataka Transport Minister Ramalinga Reddy confirmed no modifications to this initiative, while Deputy CM DK Shivakumar endorsed the model as a national exemplar, gaining bipartisan recognition and public satisfaction.

(With inputs from agencies.)