Karnataka: CM Siddaramaiah releases ₹50 cr grant to appease discontented Congress MLAs

In a major relief to discontented Congress MLAs, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has released a ₹50 crore grant for infrastructure development in their constituencies. This move comes amidst growing dissatisfaction among ruling party legislators over the lack of constituency funds, particularly as financial focus remained centred on the state’s guarantee schemes.

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The unrest reached a tipping point recently, prompting Congress High Command leader Randeep Singh Surjewala to hold a series of one-on-one meetings with aggrieved MLAs. Soon after, the state government announced the release of the long-awaited grant, aimed at pacifying its own ranks.

Of the ₹50 crore released, ₹37.5 crore has been earmarked for the Public Works Department to undertake works related to roads, bridges, rural infrastructure, and urban development. An additional ₹12.5 crore will be allocated at the discretion of individual MLAs, allowing them to address specific local needs.

This gesture is seen as a strategic move by Siddaramaiah to retain party unity and address rising frustrations among his legislators. Several Congress MLAs had openly demanded funds, warning that lack of development in their constituencies could hurt the party’s prospects.

To further engage with lawmakers, CM Siddaramaiah is set to hold a two-day marathon meeting with Congress MLAs on July 30 and 31. Legislators have been asked to submit a detailed list of constituency demands ahead of the discussions.