Govt diverting SC/ST funds to guarantees: BJP

R Ashoka, a prominent leader of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), has accused the Karnataka government of misappropriating funds allocated for the welfare of Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST). During a recent press conference, Ashoka claimed that the state administration is diverting these essential resources to finance various guarantee schemes, which he argues ultimately exacerbate the state's financial liabilities. The opposition leader emphasized that this practice not only compromises the welfare of marginalized communities but also raises concerns about the government's fiscal management. He urged the ruling party to prioritize the needs of SC/ST populations rather than using their funds for politically motivated programs. This controversy highlights ongoing tensions between the BJP and the Congress-led Karnataka government, particularly concerning fiscal responsibility and social equity. As the state grapples with increasing debt levels, the implications of such financial strategies on vulnerable communities are becoming a focal point in the political discourse ahead of upcoming elections.