Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, speaking at a Lok Sabha election campaign meeting in Vijayapura, criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi for allegedly showing favoritism towards capitalists by waiving their loans while neglecting to provide similar support to farmers. Siddaramaiah highlighted that during his tenure as Chief Minister, he had waived off loans worth Rs 8165 crores to 27 lakh farmers, contrasting it with PM Modi's actions towards big corporations like Adani and Ambani.
The Chief Minister emphasized the importance of social, economic, and political freedom in building an egalitarian society, pointing out that various acts promoting social justice and equality were brought in during the Congress period. Siddaramaiah also accused the BJP of disrespecting the Constitution, social justice, and the poor, alleging that they aim to perpetuate inequality in society. He further criticized the BJP for allegedly bankrupting the state financially and failing to fulfill promises made to the people, such as reducing fuel prices and improving the value of the rupee.
Moreover, Siddaramaiah highlighted the initiatives undertaken by the Congress government to empower the poor and underprivileged, regardless of caste, religion, or language. He outlined various schemes such as Grilahakshmi, Grihajyoti, Yuvanidhi, Annabhagya, and Shakti, aimed at increasing the purchasing power of the people affected by rising prices. The Chief Minister alleged that the central government failed to provide rice as promised, leading the state government to offer cash instead. Siddaramaiah urged voters to support the Congress candidate over the BJP, emphasizing the party's commitment to empowering marginalized communities and providing economic assistance to those in need.