Senior Karnataka minister R Ashoka has launched a sharp attack on the ruling Congress party, accusing it of cheating a staggering 1.26 crore women beneficiaries of the flagship Gruha Lakshmi scheme. The allegation centres on the non-payment of dues for the months of February and March, funds for which were reportedly allocated in the previous state budget.
Allegations of Financial Neglect
Addressing a press conference on 24 December 2025, Minister Ashoka presented a detailed critique of the scheme's implementation. He explained that while the financial provision for the payments had been made in the budget passed by the previous government, the current Congress administration had failed to disburse the amounts for the final two months of the fiscal year. The Gruha Lakshmi scheme, a major poll promise of the Congress, provides monthly financial assistance to women heads of households.
"The Congress government is cheating 1.26 crore women of the state," Ashoka stated emphatically during the news conference. He stressed that the dues for February and March represent a significant commitment to the state's women, and the delay or non-payment constitutes a breach of trust with the electorate that voted the party to power on the back of such guarantees.
The Core of the Controversy
The controversy highlights a critical clash over welfare governance and fiscal management. Ashoka's accusation implies that the allocated funds, meant specifically for these beneficiaries, have not reached their intended destination despite being earmarked. This raises serious questions about the government's prioritisation and operational efficiency in delivering on its core welfare promises.
The scale of the allegation is monumental, affecting over 1.26 crore beneficiaries across Karnataka. For many families, this assistance is a crucial part of their monthly sustenance, making the alleged non-payment a direct economic blow. The minister's move to bring this issue to a press conference indicates a strategic political offensive, aiming to corner the government on one of its most celebrated welfare programmes.
Political Repercussions and Public Trust
This development is set to intensify the political battle in Karnataka. The Gruha Lakshmi scheme is not just a policy but a central pillar of the Congress's social contract with the people of the state. Accusations of mismanagement or neglect from a prominent opposition leader like R Ashoka strike at the heart of the government's credibility.
The coming days will likely see the state government compelled to respond with clarifications on the status of the payments. The key points of contention will be:
- The exact status of the budgeted funds for February and March.
- The administrative reasons behind any delay in disbursement.
- A clear timeline for when the beneficiaries can expect to receive their dues.
As the news broke late on December 24th, the political discourse in Karnataka is poised for a heated debate over welfare economics, fiscal responsibility, and the sanctity of electoral promises. The outcome of this controversy could significantly influence public perception ahead of future electoral battles.
