The Congress-led government in Karnataka is facing backlash over its decision to purchase 33 Toyota Innova Hycross hybrid SUVs for its ministers, allocating Rs. 9.9 crore for the endeavour. The government has bypassed regular tender processes by invoking a 4(G) exemption under the Karnataka Transparency in Public Procurement (KTPP) Act.
The purchase announcement comes just two days after the launch of the state’s most costly scheme, the Gruha Lakshmi, which has a budget of Rs.17,500 crore this fiscal year.
Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar defended the move, stating, “Safety of ministers is important as they have to travel long distances. We don’t even have chartered flights and helicopters like other states.”
Opposition parties, however, argue that the significant expenditure on high-end vehicles diverts funds from critical development work. “Where is the money for cars when there’s no money for development?” questioned BJP MLC C Narayanaswamy.
In 2013, the Congress government allocated Rs.5 crore for new ministerial cars. The current budget includes over Rs.50,000 crore for social welfare, making the Rs.10 crore for vehicles a fraction at .02% but nonetheless a point of contention.
