Karnataka Deputy CM Criticizes Central Government Over National Herald Case

D.K. Shivakumar, Karnataka's Deputy Chief Minister, has publicly criticized the central government regarding the ongoing National Herald case. He called for the withdrawal of the FIR against Congress, claiming the case is being dismissed. Shivakumar accused central officials of delaying fund releases to distract from the issue and highlighted the effective implementation of welfare programs in Karnataka over the past two years. He contrasted the state's achievements with those of other states, emphasizing the government's commitment to fulfilling its promises. The political tension escalated as BJP leaders also weighed in on the matter, accusing Congress of creating unrest.

By Narendra Chaudhary Dec 18, 2025, 12:41 IST

Criticism of Central Government

On Thursday, D.K. Shivakumar, the Deputy Chief Minister of Karnataka, strongly criticized the central government regarding the National Herald case. He urged the authorities to withdraw the FIR filed against the Congress party, asserting that the case is already being dismissed.

Call for FIR Withdrawal

While addressing reporters, Shivakumar stated, "The National Herald case is being dismissed, yet an FIR remains active. It would be prudent for them to retract the FIR. The FIR lodged with the Delhi police would be beneficial for them; otherwise, they are merely causing us inconvenience."

Allegations Against Central Authorities

Shivakumar accused central officials of deliberately delaying the release of funds to distract from the National Herald issue. He claimed, "They aim to divert attention because they are aware that we are raising the National Herald matter. They are harassing Rahul Gandhi and Sonia Gandhi. We intended to highlight this issue, but they obstructed it under the guise of Griha Lakshmi. He also questioned the delay in fund allocation for other projects, asking why money for the Upper Bhadra project and MGNREGA has not been disbursed yet. The funds for the Jal Jeevan Mission and MGNREGA have not been allocated, impacting our finances."

Comparison with Other States

Shivakumar emphasized that his government has effectively implemented welfare programs over the past 24 months, comparing Karnataka's performance with other states. He remarked, "We have delivered on our promises. What happened in Maharashtra? What is the situation in other states? They have been unable to achieve anything. However, we have accomplished everything in Karnataka within 24 months." Earlier today, B.Y. Vijayendra, the Karnataka BJP president, launched a sharp attack on Congress for protesting over the National Herald case, stating that the High Court has not exonerated the Gandhi family and accusing the party of creating unrest by targeting constitutional bodies.