Karnataka BJP protests over alleged financial mismanagement and unpaid bills

Bharatiya Janata Party workers staged a protest in Belagavi on Wednesday, accusing the Karnataka government of financial mismanagement and failing to clear contractors’ pending bills. The demonstration was led by BJP State vice-president Anil Benake at Chennamma Circle. Protesters raised slogans against the government and displayed empty pots and placards setting out their allegations.

The workers attempted to hold a mock funeral procession for Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, but police intervened and stopped them. A heated exchange followed when officers tried to seize the mock bier.

Police also prevented the protesters from burning an effigy at the circle. BJP leaders alleged that the State government had run out of funds. They questioned announcements of grants worth several crores of rupees for different regions, saying the government was making financial commitments despite what they described as a funding crisis.

The protesters also alleged that the Chief Minister had made promises during visits to various parts of Karnataka without ensuring that money was available to implement them. They said delays in paying contractors had affected the execution of development works. The demonstration focused on the government’s financial obligations rather than a specific project.

BJP workers demanded accountability for commitments and alleged that the administration had failed to fulfil its promises. The protest comes as the government faces claims from contractors about unpaid bills. The source material does not include a response from the State government to the Belagavi demonstration or the specific allegations made by the BJP workers during it.

Police intervention prevented both the mock procession and the attempted effigy burning. The protest nevertheless continued with slogans and displays criticising the government’s handling of funds and contractor payments.