Controversy Erupts Over Shakti Scheme’s “London Book of World Records” Certificate; Opposition labels it fake

Shakti Scheme: A certificate shared by Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah claiming that the state’s flagship Shakti scheme has entered the “London Book of World Records” has sparked political uproar, with opposition parties BJP and JD(S) accusing the government of promoting a fake recognition.

Three days ago, Siddaramaiah posted the certificate on social media platform X, celebrating the scheme’s achievement in facilitating free bus travel for women across Karnataka. The post claimed that the scheme had set a global record for the highest number of women availing free public transport.

However, BJP MLC and former minister C.T. Ravi alleged that the certificate was not only fake but part of a paid promotional package. “This certificate is not just fake—it has a price tag! How low will you stoop to mislead the public with such cheap tactics?” he posted on X.

He cited examples of packages offered by the organization, including a Rs 4,000 “Classic Plan” and a Rs 10,000 “Platinum Package” that includes medals and trophies sent via courier. Adding to the controversy, JD(S) claimed that London Book of World Records Ltd.

was dissolved on July 15, 2025, raising further doubts about the legitimacy of the certificate. BJP IT cell head Amit Malviya also weighed in, calling it a major embarrassment for the Congress. “The certificate is riddled with spelling and grammatical errors. Someone has clearly duped the Congress,” he wrote.

The certificate bears the signatures of Avinash D. Sakunde, listed as the “International President,” and Dr. Ivan Gasina, purportedly representing the European Union. Their roles and affiliations are now under scrutiny.

In response to the backlash, a senior official from the Chief Minister’s Office stated that the certificate was shared by Transport Minister Ramalinga Reddy, and that the CM’s office is now seeking clarification from him.

The Shakti scheme, which offers free bus travel to women across Karnataka, has been widely praised for its social impact. However, this controversy over its alleged world record recognition has cast a shadow over the program’s public image and raised questions about the vetting of such claims by government officials. Further clarification from the state government is awaited.

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