Opposition parties should not make baseless allegations, says Siddaramaiah

Chief Minister Siddaramaiah responds to corruption allegations, emphasizes need for proof, defends bus fare hike, discusses party issues and plans.

Taking exception to the allegations of corruption levelled against his government by Union Minister and Janata Dal(S) leader H.D. Kumaraswamy, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Sunday said that leaders of Opposition parties should not make baseless allegations. Any allegation should be backed by data or proof of irregularities, he added.

He was speaking to reporters at the helipad on MBA College Grounds in Davangere.

“It is not the job of the Opposition just to make baseless allegations. When they accuse the ruling party of indulging in irregularities, they should back it up with documents and data. They should not make allegations without any basis,” the Chief Minister said.

He was responding to the allegations made by Mr. Kumaraswamy that his government is charging a commission of 60% in all government works.

He defended the bus fare hike saying that it has become necessary for the smooth functioning of the State-run transport undertakings.

“Bus fares have been revised from time to time, during the rule of all parties. It is required to ensure optimal revenue flows to the State-run transport undertakings for employee salaries revisions, absorbing diesel price hike, buying new buses and to beat inflation. The last revision was done several years ago and the corporations are suffering losses due to high operational costs. The recent revision will help them stabilise their finances,” he said.

“Why are the Opposition parties targeting us? Were the fares not increased during the BJP or Janata Dal(S) rule? Has the Central government not increased railway fares?” he asked.