Congress MP Calls for Increased Budget Allocation, Demands Separate Nation for Southern Region

GG News Bureau
Bengaluru, Feb 2, 2024: Congress MP DK Suresh, who is the brother of Karnataka Congress president and deputy CM DK Shivakumar, has sparked controversy by suggesting the idea of separate nationhood for southern states.

This idea, which is the first of its kind from a Karnataka politician, comes amidst allegations of unfair treatment towards Karnataka by the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

Suresh’s statement, made in response to the Interim Budget presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, argues that taxes collected from southern states are not being distributed fairly, with a disproportionate amount going to the north.

He warns that if this perceived injustice is not addressed, southern states may demand separate nationhood.

Deputy CM Shivakumar supports his brother’s perspective, stating that Suresh is merely expressing the sentiments of the people. However, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah does not support the call for separate statehood and instead urges the Centre to ensure equitable allocation of resources.

Congress leader HK Patil acknowledges the perceived injustice towards southern states, particularly during times of drought, but does not explicitly support Suresh’s stance.

The opposition BJP slams Suresh’s statement, accusing the Congress of having a divisive mindset.

Union Minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar accuses the Congress of engaging in North-South conflict and appeasement politics.

This controversy occurs in the context of ongoing debates on resource distribution and financial disparity among states, and it also comes ahead of the 2024 general elections.