DK Shivakumar confident of by-elections results, says guarantees to continue

Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar, on Wednesday, expressed confidence in Congress party’s efforts for the by-elections to three assembly seats, emphasising that the outcome was ultimately in God’s hands. Speaking to reporters after offering prayers at the Kollur Mookambika temple, he stated, “The fruits of our labour are God’s will. I believe that God will bless us in all the three places.”
Shivakumar dismissed the credibility of surveys projecting one seat each for the three major parties in the state. “What did the surveys in Karnataka and Haryana show? I don’t believe in election surveys. Politics cannot be based on surveys. People will support those who win their trust,” he said.
He also reassured the public about the continuation of the state government’s guarantee schemes, aligning with his claims that the state does not lack funds. “Guarantees will continue for another 3.5 years, and we will extend them for another five years if we return to power. We are able to provide these guarantees thanks to the blessings of Goddess Mookambike,” he said.
Responding to the Opposition’s outcry over the cancellation of Below Poverty Line (BPL) cards, Shivakumar assured the public yet again that no genuine BPL cardholders would be affected. “We will not let down BPL cardholders at any cost. We have instructed the concerned minister to provide a list of genuine cases where BPL cards were wrongfully cancelled, and those families will be allowed to reapply,” he promised. The Minister further criticised the Opposition for raising a “hue and cry” over the issue, stating that it was their job to make noise.
The Deputy Chief Minister also addressed concerns regarding the slashing of NABARD loans by the Centre, revealing that Chief Minister Siddaramaiah had already submitted an appeal to Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on the matter.