Bengaluru - The Karnataka BJP launched a scathing attack on the ruling Congress government , citing the state's high maternal death rate as a key failing. Opposition leader R. Ashoka, speaking at a press conference in Bengaluru, claimed Karnataka holds the top position in maternal deaths nationwide.

Ashoka criticized Chief Minister Siddaramaiah for boasting about Karnataka's GDP growth while ignoring the plight of mothers and children dying in government hospitals. He further condemned the government for spending Rs 20 crore on conventions while failing to address the crisis. Ashoka stated that even if the government holds 100 conventions without saving children, it will not escape the curse of people.

The BJP leader presented a grim picture of the state's healthcare system, calling it "sick" and highlighting the deaths of 111 newborns and 28 mothers in government hospitals over the past 10 months. He specifically cited the recent deaths of seven mothers and one infant at Ballari Hospital, allegedly linked to the use of intravenous fluids from a blacklisted company.

Ashoka accused the government of negligence, citing their continued purchase of substandard medicines even after identifying the issue. He demanded accountability and the resignation of Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, emphasizing the Chief Minister's lack of control over the state administration and his failure to console the grieving families.