Karnataka cash crunch: BJP protests, demands CM Shivakumar’s resignation

Mangalore Today News Network

Bengaluru, Sep 23, 2026: The Opposition BJP staged a protest at the Vidhana Soudha on Wednesday, alleging financial mismanagement by the Karnataka government and demanding Chief Minister D K Shivakumar’s resignation. The party also sought a white paper on the state’s financial position.

The protest was held near the statue of former chief minister Kengal Hanumanthaiah, a day after reports emerged about a Finance Department note cautioning the government to adopt a realistic approach to funding new projects amid limited fiscal space.

Leader of the Opposition in the Assembly R Ashoka accused the government of announcing projects without ensuring the availability of funds and demanded Shivakumar’s resignation.

“The Chief Minister is announcing projects. Where is the money? The Finance Department has given Shivakumar his marks card, and he has failed,” Ashoka said.

BJP state president B Y Vijayendra said the party staged the protest carrying empty pots to highlight what it described as the state’s financial difficulties. He claimed the Finance Department had cautioned the government against announcing new programmes because of a shortage of funds.

“The government is in an ICU. There is no money for development or drought relief. We demand a white paper on the state’s finances,” Vijayendra said.

The Finance Department has reportedly advised the government to exercise fiscal prudence and avoid taking up major projects without adequate budgetary provision. The department has also flagged pending financial commitments and limited fiscal space.

Shivakumar, who also holds the Finance portfolio, has acknowledged the department’s advice, saying it was issued in the government’s interest. He has also said he would decide which schemes should continue or be discontinued.