Mon Jan 12 14:11:58 UTC 2026: ### Headline: Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah Highlights Development in Kalyana Karnataka, Challenges BJP’s Claims

The Story:
Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah addressed a gathering in the newly declared Yadrami taluk of Kalaburagi district on Monday, January 12, 2026, after laying the foundation stone for 82 development works and inaugurating 17 projects worth ₹906 crore. He used the opportunity to emphasize the Congress party’s commitment to the Kalyana Karnataka region, highlighting their role in securing Article 371(J) and refuting claims that the state government lacks funds due to guarantee schemes. He accused the BJP of failing to deliver on promises and underinvesting in the region’s development.

Key Points:

  • Siddaramaiah credited the Congress party, particularly AICC president Mallikarjun Kharge and former Chief Minister late N. Dharam Singh, for securing Article 371(J) for the Kalyana Karnataka region.
  • The Chief Minister stated that the government has spent ₹1.12 lakh crore on guarantee schemes while simultaneously investing in infrastructure and regional development.
  • He claimed that the Congress government initiated development works in 49 new taluks, compared to only 14 during the BJP’s tenure. In Kalyana Karnataka, Congress sanctioned works in 17 new taluks, while BJP sanctioned works in only 2 taluks.
  • ₹1,218 crore under the SDRF and ₹1,031 crore from the State government have been released for flood relief, benefiting 14.21 lakh farmers across Karnataka, with ₹1,072 crore reaching 7.21 lakh farmers in the Kalyana Karnataka region.
  • The Congress government has sanctioned ₹13,000 crore to the Kalyana Karnataka Regional Development Board (KKRDB) over the last three years, prioritizing education and healthcare.

Critical Analysis:

The Chief Minister’s statements are strategically timed and aimed at undermining the BJP’s influence in the Kalyana Karnataka region ahead of upcoming elections. By emphasizing the Congress party’s contributions to the region’s development and questioning the BJP’s commitment, Siddaramaiah is attempting to solidify the party’s support base and attract voters. The focus on specific figures and comparing the performance of different parties underscores a competitive political landscape where each party seeks to demonstrate its commitment to regional development.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Congress government is actively promoting its achievements in the Kalyana Karnataka region, particularly regarding development projects and flood relief measures.
  • There is an ongoing political rivalry between the Congress and BJP regarding credit for regional development initiatives, specifically related to Article 371(J).
  • The government is prioritizing education and healthcare in the Kalyana Karnataka region, as evidenced by the allocation of funds and the establishment of Karnataka Public Schools.
  • Flood relief measures and financial assistance to farmers are significant components of the government’s strategy in the region.
  • The Congress party aims to maintain and strengthen its political foothold in the Kalyana Karnataka region by emphasizing its commitment to inclusive and equitable development.

Impact Analysis:

The Chief Minister’s pronouncements have the potential to influence public perception of the Congress party’s effectiveness and commitment to regional development. If the claims are perceived as credible, it could translate into increased support for the party in the Kalyana Karnataka region during upcoming elections. The sustained focus on regional development and welfare initiatives may also contribute to long-term socio-economic improvements in the region, reducing regional imbalances and promoting inclusive growth.

Read More

Related News: