Union Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy has challenged Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah to disclose the state’s financial progress as of January 31. Addressing a press conference, Kumaraswamy questioned the government’s claims of financial stability and criticized its revenue policies.

“The state government says Karnataka is financially strong. How exactly is it strong? With 62% of financial targets still pending, they are filling the treasury by imposing heavy taxes on people. Instead of taking responsibility, they are blaming the Centre for the Metro fare hike. If the fare hike was decided by the Centre, why haven’t other states increased their rates? The fare increase happened due to the state government’s own recommendations. Despite public opposition, the government remains indifferent,” Kumaraswamy alleged.

Kumaraswamy further criticized the government’s move to regularize B-Khata properties, stating that it was not out of concern for the people but rather a desperate attempt to fill the state’s treasury. “With no funds left in the treasury, the government has turned to legalizing illegal properties under the guise of regularization,” he remarked.

Referring to the recent attack on the Udayagiri police station, Kumaraswamy demanded strict action against those involved.

“Those who pelted stones at the police station must be punished severely. The government should not act to please anyone but should take firm action against lawbreakers. If mobs can attack police stations with sacks full of stones, should we just tolerate it?” he questioned.

His remarks have sparked a political debate, with the state government yet to respond to his allegations.