Udupi: Udupi-Chikkamagaluru MP Shobha Karandlaje has voiced strong criticism against the Congress party, accusing it of spreading misinformation about the BJP.
Speaking during a press conference in Udupi, she firmly stated that the BJP has no intentions of incorporating leaders or members from the Congress into its ranks. Karandlaje emphasised that some Congress leaders are merely entertaining the idea of joining the BJP.*
Highlighting recent developments, Karandlaje pointed out that despite the state government’s completion of its first 100 days, it is already grappling with a notable level of anti-incumbency. Allegations of instability and growing discontent among Congress MLAs have arisen. Furthermore, Karandlaje noted a sense of demoralisation among bureaucrats, which she attributed to what she characterised as oppressive government policies and conduct.
In contrast to these allegations, Karandlaje asserted that it is the Congress party that is actively seeking to woo MLAs and leaders from the BJP. She argued that this internal discord is driving a wedge between the party’s top leadership. Notably, both Chief Minister S. Siddaramiah and Deputy Chief Minister D. K. Shivakumar are reportedly drifting apart both politically and socially, forming their own factions. Karandlaje cautioned that this power struggle could potentially impact governance.
Karandlaje emphasised that the BJP is fully prepared to assume its role as the opposition in the state and has no intentions of undermining the democratic mandate given by the people. She stressed the party’s commitment to discipline and providing constructive opposition to the government.
Addressing concerns about the Cauvery river issue, Karandlaje expressed apprehension about the unusually low rainfall during the 2023 monsoon season, which has left state reservoirs far from capacity. She also expressed concerns about the Cauvery river flowing below normal levels, which raises doubts about the ability to supply water to Bengaluru, Mysuru, Mandya, and Tumukuru. Karandlaje criticised the Karnataka state Government for releasing water from the KRS Reservoir to appease the Tamil Nadu Government, a move that has encountered resistance from farmers. She noted that during the 2022 season, when the BJP was in power, water was released to Tamil Nadu strictly in accordance with the prescribed volume without complications. However, she alleged that the current Congress Government is going to great lengths to satisfy the DMK government in Tamil Nadu, primarily because the DMK is a member of the I.N.D.I.A bloc.