Wed Mar 05 17:03:21 UTC 2025: **Karnataka Assembly Debates Congress Leadership Tussle, Affecting Governance**
Bengaluru, March 5, 2025 – The Karnataka Legislative Assembly witnessed heated debate Wednesday over the ongoing leadership struggle within the Congress party. BJP MLA V. Sunil Kumar accused the Congress government of being paralyzed by internal political infighting, impacting administrative efficiency. He claimed the political insecurity was so pronounced that the public questioned the government’s future leadership even after the state budget presentation. Kumar criticized Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s pursuit of a record-breaking tenure, asserting that effectiveness, not longevity, is paramount.
While acknowledging internal party struggles within the BJP, Kumar differentiated it from the Congress’s situation, arguing that the latter’s infighting directly hampered governance. He specifically criticized delays in the release of funds for the Gruha Lakshmi scheme, alleging it had become an “election Lakshmi” scheme due to its timing. He questioned the administrative system’s reliance on a single minister, referencing Minister Laxmi Hebbalkar’s explanation for the delay, citing ill health.
However, RDPR Minister Priyank Kharge countered these accusations, pointing to delays in the release of central funds for various schemes, including MGNREGA, PM Kisan, and Fasal Bima Yojana. This rebuttal sparked a heated exchange between the ruling and opposition benches. The debate highlights concerns about the impact of the Congress’ internal power struggle on the state’s administration and its key welfare programs.
First Piper 