BJP delegation seeks special grants of ₹15,000 crore for Bengaluru ahead of state budget

A delegation of BJP legislators from Bengaluru met Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Friday, urging him to allocate special grants of ₹15,000 crore for the city’s overall development and ₹150 crore for each Assembly constituency in the upcoming state Budget. Siddaramaiah, who also holds the finance portfolio, is set to present his 16th state budget on March 7.

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The BJP leaders emphasized Bengaluru’s significant contribution to Karnataka’s tax revenue, accounting for 60%, but argued that funds for its infrastructure and civic development have been inadequate. They criticized the Congress government for releasing only ₹10 crore per constituency three months ago, which they deemed insufficient. The delegation, led by BJP state president B.Y. Vijayendra and Leader of Opposition R. Ashok, urged the CM to allocate funds without bias, particularly for first-time legislators.

Expressing concerns over Bengaluru’s deteriorating infrastructure, the delegation also opposed the proposed tunnel road project, calling it an unnecessary expense, and demanded fair allocation of funds, citing that the previous BJP government had consistently supported Siddaramaiah’s constituency. Additionally, they appealed for a reduction in Metro fares through a revised fare committee.

With civic issues mounting, the BJP urged the government not to delay the BBMP elections under the pretext of governance reforms.