India, Feb. 1 -- Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Saturday strongly criticized the Union Budget 2025-26, stating that it had left Karnataka with a "khaali chombu" (empty vessel) and failed to meet expectations. Speaking to reporters in Mysuru, he expressed disappointment over the lack of provisions for key state projects and accused the Centre of neglecting Karnataka's contributions to the national economy.

Siddaramaiah emphasized that Karnataka is the second-highest tax-paying state, yet it received a meager share from the budget. He claimed that multiple requests sent to the Centre, including those for crucial infrastructure and water projects, were completely ignored.

"The Union Budget, especially from Karnataka's perspective...