The BJP has expressed strong disapproval of the Karnataka budget for 2025-26, claiming that the Congress is favoring Muslims by allocating Rs 1,000 crore for minority initiatives, safeguarding Waqf properties, supporting Urdu schools, and providing 4 percent contract reservations under Category-II B.
The Karnataka government's budget for 2025 has ignited a political controversy, with the BJP vocally opposing the funding designated for minority welfare. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah unveiled the budget, which includes Rs 1,000 crore for minority development, Rs 150 crore for the protection of Waqf properties, Rs 100 crore for Urdu schools, and a monthly honorarium of Rs 6,000 for Imams. Furthermore, 4 percent of public works contracts are set aside for Muslims under Category-II B. Amit Malviya, the head of the BJP IT Cell, took to X to accuse the Congress of favoring Muslims in their allocation of resources, likening it to remarks made by former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh.
Malviya referred to Singh’s comments from December 9, 2006, emphasizing a statement where the former Prime Minister asserted that minorities, especially Muslims, should have the “first claim on resources.” He noted that Siddaramaiah’s recent budget announcement mirrors this approach, highlighting that the Chief Minister has allocated a 4 percent reservation in public works contracts specifically for Muslims under Category-II B.
Malviya criticized the Congress for neglecting the rights of Scheduled Castes (SCs), Scheduled Tribes (STs), and Other Backward Classes (OBCs), labeling the budgetary measures as unconstitutional. He stated, “No reservation can be granted based on religion. India will not allow the Congress to succeed in their devious plans.”
(This story is published from a syndicated feed)