Deputy CM DKS highlights Congress’ pre-poll guarantees, responds to criticism

NT Correspondent

Bengaluru: Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar asserted that the implementation of the Congress party’s five prepoll guarantees, starting from June 11, aims to alleviate people’s difficulties and ease their financial burdens resulting from rising prices and inflation.

Shivakumar made these claims while addressing media persons near his residence on Saturday. Addressing criticism of BJP leaders, Shivakumar remarked that the government remains unfazed by opposition criticism, emphasizing that it is the role of the opposition to scrutinize the government’s actions.

However, Shivakumar reminded BJP leaders of their own unfulfilled promises, starting from Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s assurance of depositing Rs 15 lakh into each person’s bank account, the creation of 2 crore jobs annually, and the doubling of farmers’ income.

Regarding the inclusion of tenants in the Gruhajyothi scheme, which offers free power up to 200 units per month, Shivakumar defended the decision, stating that there is nothing wrong with providing this benefit to individuals residing in rented houses.

Responding to inquiries about allowing individuals to opt out of the scheme, similar to the Give It Up initiative for LPG subsidies by the central government, Shivakumar affirmed that the option would be available. He noted that it is up to the people to voluntarily choose whether to avail themselves of the benefits. Furthermore, he mentioned that several officials, media figures, government servants, and affluent middle-class individuals have already indicated their preference to not receive free power.

When asked about JD(S) leader H D Kumaraswamy’s recent comment accusing the Congress of deceiving people by applying ghee to their foreheads, Shivakumar refrained from directly responding, acknowledging Kumaraswamy as a prominent leader with vast experience. He stated that he would refrain from commenting on Kumaraswamy’s remarks, asserting that they would focus on carrying out their work.

Expressing his condolences, the Deputy Chief Minister expressed deep sorrow and grief over the tragic train accident in Balasore, Odisha, which claimed the lives of over 230 individuals. “I offer my heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families,” he stated.