Siddaramaiah urges BJP to propose SCSP-TSP law

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has challenged the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to push the central government for new laws to protect the rights of scheduled castes and scheduled tribes. This comes as Siddaramaiah faces criticism from the BJP for using funds intended for these groups to support government schemes. During a two-hour response in the Legislative Council, Siddaramaiah defended his government's decisions and highlighted its contributions to the welfare of SC/ST communities. He urged the Leader of the Opposition, Chalavadi Narayanswamy, to propose a resolution asking the central government to ensure fair funding for these communities. If Narayanswamy does not, Siddaramaiah said he would introduce the resolution himself. The Chief Minister stated that his government has spent over ₹76,000 crore on welfare schemes, benefiting millions of families. He disputed the BJP’s claims of misusing funds and pointed out that significant amounts were reportedly redirected during BJP's time in power. Siddaramaiah also mentioned the actions taken to remove provisions that allowed for such diversions of money. Siddaramaiah acknowledged that his government increased tariffs to help fund these welfare programs. He explained that the financial need for guarantees is substantial, citing an annual requirement of about ₹51,000 crore. Additionally, he noted the rise in fuel prices since Prime Minister Modi's administration began. The discussion in the Legislative Council was heated, with interruptions and disagreements from both sides. Following Siddaramaiah's remarks, BJP members staged a walkout in protest, expressing dissatisfaction with his answers.