Deshpande Criticizes Karnataka's Five Guarantees

Veteran Congress MLA R V Deshpande criticized Karnataka's five guarantees, particularly schemes like Gruha Lakshmi and Shakti, claiming they disadvantage men. He suggested these schemes were poorly advised and that the government's focus on them has stalled broader development work.


Devdiscourse News Desk | Bengaluru | Updated: 13-10-2025 15:19 IST | Created: 13-10-2025 15:19 IST
Deshpande Criticizes Karnataka's Five Guarantees
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Veteran Congress MLA and former minister R V Deshpande has voiced criticisms against Karnataka's five guarantees, expressing reservations over their impact on men. Speaking at an event in Dandeli, Deshpande highlighted concerns over women-centric schemes, dubbing them a 'lottery' for women while noting limited space for men on state buses.

Deshpande took aim at Chief Minister Siddaramaiah's initiatives, particularly the Gruha Lakshmi and Gruha Jyoti schemes, which afford monetary benefits and free electricity to women. He questioned the selection of these schemes, rhetorically asking who advised such measures and speculating on their impact.

The state's five pre-poll guarantees, announced on May 20, 2023, include initiatives like free bus travel for women and rice distribution. While these schemes are popular among beneficiaries, Deshpande and other critics argue they hinder wider developmental efforts. Over Rs 51,034 crore has been allocated for these programmes, sparking debate within the state's political landscape.

(With inputs from agencies.)

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