Bengaluru, Dec 12: Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has come under political fire after official records revealed that the state spent over ₹47 crore on his helicopter and special aircraft travel between May 2023 and November 2025.
According to data submitted in the Legislative Council, the government booked 181 air trips during the period, of which 180 were undertaken by the Chief Minister, while one trip was allocated to Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot.
The disclosure followed an inquiry raised by a BJP legislator, prompting a wave of criticism from the Opposition. The BJP accused Siddaramaiah of misusing public funds and abandoning the fiscal restraint he once advocated. Party leaders said the steep expenditure contradicts the Chief Minister’s long-cultivated “socialist leader” image, branding him instead as a “Costly Minister.”
Responding to the allegations, Siddaramaiah maintained that the air travel expenses were part of his official duties, emphasising that frequent state-wide travel was essential for administrative responsibilities.
The revelations have triggered intense debate within the Council and sparked discussions across political circles. Media reports have described the expenditure as “sky-high,” adding further momentum to the growing controversy.
