Bengaluru, Sept. 23 -- Karnataka Minister Priyank Kharge on Wednesday hit back at the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) over its protests alleging a financial crisis in the state, accusing the Centre of withholding statutory grants and claiming that the Modi government had given Karnataka "only an empty box."

BJP leaders held protests at the Kengal Hanumanthaiah statue in Bengaluru earlier today, accusing the administration of financial bankruptcy, economic mismanagement, and diverting funds meant for Dalit communities.

Reacting to the protest, Kharge said Karnataka had been forced to approach the courts to secure what he described as its rightful share of central funds.

"I agree with them; there is no fund that is received from the Central...