Bengaluru, 3 Oct

Citing a study, the Congress on Friday said its government's five guarantees implemented in Karnataka over the past two years have delivered impactful change with families making long-term investments in their health and education as well as local economies becoming stronger.

Congress general secretary in-charge communications Jairam Ramesh also said that due to the guarantees of the Karnataka government women are healthier, more mobile, and empowered in the family and in society. Ramesh cited a study, led by researcher Tara Krishnaswamy, in collaboration with Lokniti-CSDS, Bangalore University, Tumkur University and Indus Action, to say that women in the State are healthier, more mobile, and empowered in the family and in society.

Meanwhile, former prime minister HD Deve Gowda alleged that the financial condition of State has worsened due to the Congress’ schemes.

"The financial condition of the state has worsened due to 'guarantees'. It’s not me who is saying this, but the Congress MLAs,” the former PM said at a press conference in City.

He also claimed that there was no money to deal with the severe flood situation in six districts of north Karnataka, including Kalaburagi. The 92-year-old JD(S) patriarch said he would visit Kalaburagi and neighbouring flood-hit regions within a week to assess the ground situation.

"They (Congress MLAs) say there is no money even to deal with such a severe flood situation," he said.

Maharashtra's release of water from its dams has led to flooding in the Bhima and Krishna rivers. Kalaburagi, Vijayapura, Bidar and Yadgir are among the worst-affected districts.

Gowda also said he would meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi to seek compensation for the flood-affected people.

"More than 50 people have lost their lives, and there is a huge loss to livestock," Gowda said.

Gowda clarified that the BJP-JD(S) alliance would continue. "There is no need to worry about the alliance. It will continue even for Panchayat and Assembly elections”.

Emphasising his cordial ties with Modi, Gowda said, "My relationship with Prime Minister Narendra Modi will never change. Show me one instance where I have spoken ill of him in the last 10 years".

The former prime minister also said he has set a target of winning at least 50 to 60 seats in the upcoming Bengaluru Municipal Corporation elections.