Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman firmly rejected the Karnataka government’s allegations of “step-motherly treatment” in tax devolution, describing the claims as baseless and aimed at misleading voters.
During an informal interaction with citizens hosted by the Citizen’s Council on Wednesday, Sitharaman defended the Centre’s financial support to states. “Step-motherly treatment would be an understatement compared to the 10 years of UPA rule. Between 2014 and 2024, the quantum given to states is not just 3x or 4x growth; it is far greater and delivered on time under each head,” she said.
The minister emphasized the importance of educated voters examining the data critically. “The educated voters must compare what is being said by the Centre and the state and check the data,” she remarked, directly addressing Karnataka’s Chief Minister.
Assurance of Fair Treatment to Karnataka
Reassuring Karnataka citizens, Sitharaman stated that the Centre had adhered to the Finance Commission’s recommendations. “What must be given has been given. This is an attempt to muddy the waters,” she said, adding that the accusations were intended to sow confusion among voters.
Clarifications on Alleged Preferential Treatment
Responding to concerns that states like Bihar and Andhra Pradesh were favored over Kerala and Manipur, the Finance Minister clarified that the allocations were based on specific needs. “Bihar faces annual floods due to water from Nepal, and discussions are ongoing between the two countries to address this. Andhra Pradesh has the Polavaram project, a national project, which merits additional funding. Claims from states like Kerala about similar bias are unfounded,” Sitharaman explained.
Advice for the Next Generation
In a lighter moment, Sitharaman offered financial wisdom to a fifth-grade student, saying, “Learn to save first before spending.”
Strengthening State-Centre Fiscal Relations
The minister reiterated the Centre’s commitment to timely and adequate financial support for all states. By refuting Karnataka’s claims, Sitharaman aimed to highlight the Centre’s transparency and adherence to equitable resource distribution, urging citizens to verify facts over rhetoric.
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