Guarantees pushing states into debt trap, says H.D. Kumaraswamy

Mysuru: Union Minister H D Kumaraswamy on Friday launched a sharp attack on Congress-led governments, alleging that their “guarantee schemes” have severely weakened the financial health of Karnataka and other states.

Speaking at a series of religious events in K.R. Nagar constituency, Kumaraswamy said that while schemes like ₹2,000 monthly assistance to women may appear beneficial, the larger financial implications are being ignored. “People must understand how this money is being funded. The government is borrowing heavily to sustain these guarantees,” he said.

He claimed that the Karnataka government has already accumulated debt worth ₹7.26 lakh crore, effectively placing a burden of nearly ₹1 lakh on each citizen in the state. “This is nothing but ‘borrowing to survive’. I am ready to debate this issue on any platform if the government has the courage,” he challenged.

The Union Minister further alleged that due to the strain caused by these schemes, the state exchequer is under pressure, affecting even routine governance. “The government is struggling to pay salaries to its employees on time. This is a dangerous trend,” he warned.

Drawing comparisons with other Congress-ruled states, Kumaraswamy pointed to Himachal Pradesh, claiming that similar policies have pushed the state into financial distress. “There are reports of salary cuts even for top officials, including the Chief Secretary. Karnataka may face a similar situation if this continues,” he said.

He also invoked the example of Sri Lanka, which faced a severe economic crisis in recent years. “If financial mismanagement continues in this manner, Karnataka could head towards a Sri Lanka-like crisis,” he cautioned.

Questioning the effectiveness of welfare schemes, he asked whether ₹2,000 per month is sufficient for women to manage household expenses amid rising prices and taxes. “On one hand, money is given under schemes like Gruha Lakshmi, but on the other, increased taxes and price rise are burdening families. Ultimately, it is the common man who suffers,” he added.

Kumaraswamy was in the region to inaugurate the Sri Melanakatte Ganapati Temple in Basavanapura and participate in the consecration ceremony of Sri Basaveshwara Swamy Temple in Hosagrahara village. He described the temple as a serene spiritual space built amidst nature and expressed satisfaction at being part of the event.

Later, he also visited the Sri Yoga Narasimha Swamy Temple in Saligrama and offered prayers.