Controversy Erupts Over Karnataka's Rs 600 Crore Minority Colonies Development Plan

BJP's Tejasvi Surya criticizes the Karnataka government for a Rs 600 crore action plan aimed at developing minority colonies, questioning its constitutional validity. He cites potential conflicts with Articles 14 and 15. Surya also challenges the government for promoting religious segregation and announces plans to contest the decision in court.

Bharatiya Janata Party MP Tejasvi Surya has levelled accusations against the Karnataka government, alleging that its Rs 600 crore action plan for developing minority colonies promotes 'institutionalized religious segregation.' Calling into question the plan's alignment with constitutional provisions, Surya's comments have sparked a political firestorm.

Surya argues that exclusively using public funds for minority colonies could violate Articles 14 and 15 of the Constitution, which ensure equality and prohibit state-led religious discrimination. He questioned the legality of designating funds based solely on religious criteria, stating that public infrastructure cannot possess a religious identity.

The MP has further announced intentions to challenge the Karnataka cabinet's decision in court. Meanwhile, state advancements include the release of the draft Karnataka State Excise Reforms 2026, ushering in a shift toward frameworks reflecting alcohol’s social costs while introducing new taxing and regulatory measures.