In recent political developments, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge publicly addressed Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar over his remarks on potentially reviewing the state’s flagship ‘Shakti’ scheme, a free bus travel initiative for women. The exchange, which unfolded during a Congress event, highlighted the party’s focus on maintaining the integrity of its guarantees, a set of five major promises that underpin Congress’ recent governance initiatives in Karnataka.
Background on the Shakti Scheme and Political Guarantees
The Shakti scheme, designed to provide free travel for women on non-luxury government buses in Karnataka, was one of the first policies launched after Congress took office last year. The initiative, part of the party’s broader commitment to supporting women’s mobility, has been praised widely but also faces challenges. Recently, Deputy CM Shivakumar’s comments about possibly revisiting the scheme sparked discussions on the durability of the party’s promises.
Shivakumar had suggested that since some women were voluntarily choosing to pay for their bus rides, the government might review the scheme. This comment drew immediate attention and concern from party leadership, including Kharge, who underscored the importance of keeping Congress’s assurances intact, especially in the face of scrutiny from opposing parties.
Kharge’s Response: Upholding Commitment to Karnataka’s Guarantees
In his remarks, Kharge highlighted that Karnataka’s five major guarantees, which include the Shakti scheme, serve as a model for other states. He noted that he had encouraged Maharashtra to look toward Karnataka’s commitment, viewing these guarantees as a significant political and social promise. However, Kharge expressed discontent at Shivakumar’s suggestion that the scheme might be revised, as it gave critics an opportunity to question the government’s consistency.
“You have given some guarantees. After seeing them, I too said in Maharashtra that there are five guarantees in Karnataka. Now, you (Shivakumar) said you will drop one guarantee,” Kharge quipped, his words carrying a pointed reminder of the importance of fulfilling the party’s promises.
Clarifications from Shivakumar and Siddaramaiah
Following Kharge’s remarks, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah stepped in to clarify that the state government has no official proposal to alter the Shakti scheme. Siddaramaiah explained that Shivakumar’s comment was intended to acknowledge that some women prefer to pay for their travel due to receiving transportation allowances from private companies. “There is no such proposal before the government,” Siddaramaiah reassured, adding that he would address the issue with Shivakumar to prevent misunderstandings.
In response, Shivakumar affirmed that the Congress administration in Karnataka had no plans to stop any of the five guarantees. He clarified that the scheme’s review was only a suggestion for voluntary contributions from those able to pay, akin to the Prime Minister’s call for citizens to forgo subsidies if financially viable. “Some employees are willing to pay for their tickets. If someone wishes to contribute, we cannot prevent them from doing so,” Shivakumar remarked, defending his stance.
Financial Concerns: Balancing Schemes with Budgetary Constraints
Beyond Karnataka, Kharge emphasized the importance of budget considerations when introducing guarantees in other states. He noted that while Maharashtra is exploring similar guarantees, it must do so responsibly. Rahul Gandhi, Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha, was reportedly advised to assess budget feasibility before making any public commitments in Maharashtra. “We must not overextend financially. Otherwise, future administrations may face severe challenges,” Kharge warned.
By emphasizing financial caution, Kharge encouraged state Congress leaders to pursue guarantees that reflect the party’s core values while ensuring long-term stability. He stressed that unrealistic promises could lead to budget deficits, ultimately affecting essential services such as road infrastructure. “If there’s no money for roads, everyone will turn against you,” Kharge noted, pointing to the potential backlash from imprudent fiscal policy.
Congress’s Stance on Unity and Long-Term Vision
The public discourse also served as a reminder for Congress leaders to remain united and avoid internal disagreements that could harm the party’s image. Kharge reminded the Karnataka leaders that any failures in the current government could have lasting effects on the party’s credibility. “If this government fails, the future generation will be left with nothing but a bad name,” Kharge stated, urging leaders to work together to safeguard Congress’s future.
Moving Forward: Congress Reaffirms Commitment to Karnataka’s Guarantees
Despite the temporary uncertainty, both Shivakumar and Siddaramaiah underscored their commitment to Karnataka’s guarantees, affirming that none of the five promises, including Shakti, would be rescinded. Shivakumar expressed confidence in the administration’s stability, stating that the Congress government aims to serve for the remaining 3.5 years and seek re-election with a record of fulfilled promises.
In the face of Kharge’s gentle rebuke, the Karnataka Congress administration remains dedicated to its guarantees, with leadership stressing that the policies will continue for “eight-and-a-half years” if re-elected.
