Former Minister CT Ravi accuses CM Siddaramaiah and DCM DK Shivakumar of prioritizing Rahul Gandhi over state interests

Bengaluru : Former minister CT Ravi has strongly criticized Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar for meeting Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, alleging that the meeting was intended to discuss the West Bengal and Assam elections rather than the welfare of Karnataka. Ravi claimed that the state leadership’s priorities are misplaced, putting party interests ahead of governance and development.

Speaking at the Karnataka Legislative Assembly, Ravi remarked that the meeting with Rahul Gandhi came at the expense of important state matters. “We will not interfere in Congress’ internal issues or disputes, but it is clear that the CM and DCM’s focus on party politics is affecting governance in Karnataka. Does Rahul Gandhi plan to offer guidance to correct this? Wisdom is offered by those who have it, while those who lack it speak aimlessly,” he said.

Ravi alleged that the CM and DCM may have been called upon to determine campaign funding for the upcoming West Bengal and Assam elections. “The leaders’ focus appears to be on party directives rather than safeguarding Karnataka’s interests. The state’s welfare has been neglected in favor of pleasing the Congress high command,” he stated.

The former minister also commented on the BJP’s upcoming foot march from Ballari to Bengaluru, stating that the party’s core committee has resolved to focus on five key issues affecting the state. He said, “We will first raise our protests across the state, then consult with senior party leaders to decide on the next course of action. We will assess the ground situation carefully before taking further decisions. In the first phase, protests will be held in Ballari, Hubballi, Mysuru, and Kalaburagi.”

CT Ravi’s comments reflect a growing concern within opposition ranks about the state leadership’s political strategy and its impact on Karnataka’s governance. He emphasized that effective leadership requires prioritizing the state’s economic growth, development, and welfare over political maneuvering. The former minister’s statements have triggered widespread debate among political circles, highlighting the tension between party allegiance and state responsibilities.

The BJP leader’s criticism also underscores the opposition’s strategy to hold the current government accountable for what it perceives as political neglect. With elections approaching in other states, Ravi’s remarks signal that the opposition will closely monitor how state resources and attention are being allocated, ensuring that Karnataka’s interests are not sidelined for party politics.

This development comes amid increasing scrutiny of state leaders’ decisions and their prioritization of party loyalty over public welfare. The debate over governance versus political obligations is likely to dominate discussions in both public and legislative forums in the coming weeks.

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