Karnataka Home Minister claims state gets less than fair share of central taxes ahead of Modi’s metro inauguration

Bengaluru, Thursday – Home Minister Priyank Kharge warned that Karnataka is shouldering most of the financial burden for the new Pink Line of the Bengaluru Metro while the Union contributes only a fraction, a point he raised just days before Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrives to open the stretch.

According to Kharge, the state is financing roughly 84 per cent of the project, covering land acquisition, legal costs and other expenses, whereas the Centre’s share stands at about 16 per cent of the total estimated outlay of Rs 3,470 crore.

“Are you expecting anything from Mr Modi? In the last 13 years, what has he contributed to Karnataka?” the minister asked, challenging the central government’s track record as he responded to a query about the upcoming inauguration between Kalena Agrahara and Tavarekere.

His remarks echoed those of Greater Bengaluru Development Minister Krishna Byre Gowda, who earlier urged the Prime Minister to increase central funding and speed up approvals for the metro and other schemes. Gowda added that credit for any centrally sponsored initiative, from the Jal Jeevan Mission to metro projects, remains limited.

Kharge highlighted Karnataka’s role as a major engine of the national economy, noting high contributions to income tax, GST and employment, as well as the state’s status as the top absorber of migrant workers. He argued that the state’s policies and budget have driven prosperity, yet the Centre has not reciprocated with a commensurate share of taxes.

Beyond the metro, the minister pressed for swift release of drought relief funds, recalling that Karnataka had to approach the Supreme Court last year to compel the Union to disburse assistance. He concluded that adequate central support would bolster infrastructure, reduce regional imbalances and create further jobs, aligning with initiatives such as Viksit Bharat, Amrit Kaal, Digital India, Skill India and Make in India.

Image: sahilonline.org

📰 Source: Sahil Online