Karnataka CM and Deputy CM Slam Union Budget 2024; Boycott NITI Aayog Meeting

Expressing dissatisfaction, Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah and Deputy CM DK Shivakumar criticized the Union Budget 2024 for neglecting Karnataka's needs. They announced a boycott of the NITI Aayog meeting chaired by PM Modi as a protest against the budget's bias towards NDA-ruled states.

Expressing his dissatisfaction with the Union Budget 2024, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Tuesday stated that the concerns of Kannadigas were overlooked, leading to the state's decision to boycott the upcoming NITI Aayog meeting. In a social media post, Siddaramaiah noted, "Despite my earnest efforts to convene an all-party MPs meeting in New Delhi to discuss Karnataka's essential needs, the Union Budget has neglected our state's demands."

Siddaramaiah also criticized Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, who attended the mentioned meeting, for ignoring Karnataka's concerns. "We don't feel Kannadigas are heard, and hence there is no point in attending the NITI Aayog meeting," he added, announcing the boycott of the meeting scheduled for July 27, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He further mentioned the disregard of farmers' demands concerning Mekedatu and Mahadayi projects, and the lack of funding for metro and infrastructure projects.

Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar echoed similar sentiments, criticizing the Union Budget for not benefiting any states ruled by opposition parties, including Karnataka. Shivakumar expressed his disappointment in Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, pointing out that Karnataka, despite its significant employment generation, was neglected in favor of Andhra Pradesh and Bihar. "They are only helping NDA-ruled states," Shivakumar stated.

(With inputs from agencies.)