Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah is facing allegations of frivolous spending after the state Public Works Department estimated Rs 2.6 crore for renovations at his official residence, Cauvery.

Criticism arose following a government notification from the finance department, which outlined planned upgrades, including a new helper’s room with a bathroom, additional storage rooms, storage racks, upgraded lighting, water points, and other miscellaneous work.

Reportedly, Rs 1.7 crore was allocated for construction of the helper’s room and kitchen items, while Rs 89 lakh will be used for electrical upgrade and air conditioning.

BJP MLA from Chikpet Uday Garudachar called the expenditure outrageous. “Isn’t it atrocious? Something that shouldn’t be done is being done by the Chief Minister himself. My appeal is that, let us first ensure all the other things are done. Once those needs are met, he can focus on renovating his house or whatever else he wants.” he said.”

“People are struggling for money. There’s hardly any left,” Garudachar added.
The renovation and its cost come amid concerns over Karnataka’s financial stability. The BJP and its allies claim that the government’s guarantee schemes were draining funds, leaving no room for development in the state. 

Source: India Today