Bengaluru, July 6: Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Sunday offered floral tributes to Babu Jagjivan Ram near the west gate of Vidhana Soudha, marking the late Dalit leader’s death anniversary. Speaking at the memorial, Siddaramaiah praised Jagjivan Ram as a “rare leader and good administrator” who played a crucial role during India’s food crisis and inspired Dalits, backward classes, and minorities.
Addressing recent political decisions, Siddaramaiah said he would consult the Congress high command on party matters, reaffirmed commitment to the state’s guarantee schemes, and promised development funds to all MLAs, including those from BJP and JD(S).
Meanwhile, Union Minister Pralhad Joshi slammed the Congress for allegedly questioning the efficacy of India’s COVID-19 vaccines. Joshi demanded an apology from Siddaramaiah, accusing Congress leaders of “insulting scientists” by linking vaccines to heart attack cases and undermining India’s pandemic achievements. Highlighting India’s record of administering 240 crore vaccine doses, Joshi challenged the Congress’ credibility on scientific progress.
Joshi also criticized the Siddaramaiah-led government for internal discord, pointing to MLAs’ corruption allegations. He warned that central funds would support “development, not corruption,” urging the state to submit a detailed plan for assistance.
The sharp exchanges underscore rising political tensions in Karnataka amid ongoing debates on governance and public health.