Funds meant for STs diverted to minorities: BJP chief

BJP president Amit Shah on Tuesday accused the ruling Congress of snatching grants meant for the Scheduled Tribes (STs) and giving it to the minorities to appease the latter.

In his first political convention after the poll dates were announced, Shah also tried to invoke local pride by stating the government gave preference to personalities like Hyder Ali, who defeated Chitradurga chieftain Madakari Nayaka through betrayal.

"The Siddaramaiah government has earmarked Rs 130 crore for scholarships to ST students, but the amount for minority students is Rs 513 crore. I am not saying do not provide money to minorities, but it is not right to divert the funds meant for STs," he said.

Shah said the government does not recognise the patriotism of Madakari Nayaka, but celebrates Jayantis of Hyder Ali, Tipu Sultan and Bahamanis. He said the BJP, if voted to power, will construct a memorial for Madakari Nayaka and the Chitradurga fort will be developed as a major tourist spot.