The Karnataka government plans to establish 10,000 Bharat Jodo Associations, each to receive a Rs 10 lakh grant, aimed at engaging youth in sports, arts, and cultural activities. Chief Minister DK Shivakumar defended the initiative, stating it would promote healthy habits and community bonding. However, the move has drawn criticism from the opposition BJP, with leader R Ashoka alleging it's a scheme to divert public funds to Congress workers and questioning its connection to the "Bharat Jodo" name. Concerns have also been raised within the Congress regarding the financial burden on the state exchequer, with reports of Minister Satish Jarkiholi expressing reservations. Opposition leader R Ashoka further alleged that the government is already channeling funds to party workers through guarantee implementation committees and urged prioritization of pending contractor payments amounting to approximately Rs 76,000 crore.