Karnataka Minister Accuses Centre of Favoring BJP States in Disaster Funds

Karnataka Minister for Rural Development and Panchayat Raj, Priyank Kharge, has sharply criticized the Central Government for its allocation of flood relief funds, accusing it of consistently favoring BJP-ruled states while shortchanging those not aligned with the National Democratic Alliance (NDA). The remarks come in response to Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s approval of Rs 1,950.80 crore as the second instalment of the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF) for 2025-26, with Karnataka receiving Rs 384.40 crore and Maharashtra, a BJP-ruled state, allocated Rs 1,566.40 crore.

Speaking to reporters in Bengaluru on October 20, 2025, Kharge highlighted the inadequacy of the funds for Karnataka, given the extensive damage caused by heavy rainfall and floods during this year’s southwest monsoon. The state reported significant losses, including loss of lives, damage to crops, property, and infrastructure. “The funds released are simply not enough to address the scale of our losses,” Kharge stated, emphasizing Karnataka’s substantial contributions to the national economy, including being a top GST and income tax contributor and leading in IT exports with an 8.9% share of India’s GDP.

Kharge accused the Centre of a pattern of unfair treatment in the devolution of taxes and funds, particularly towards states not governed by the BJP or NDA. “It’s a regular practice to stifle us with insufficient funds. While BJP states receive more, non-NDA states like Karnataka are always shortchanged,” he said.

The minister’s comments underscore growing tensions between Karnataka’s Congress-led government and the central administration, raising questions about equitable disaster relief distribution. As the state grapples with the aftermath of the monsoon devastation, Kharge’s allegations highlight concerns over political bias in addressing critical humanitarian needs.

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