Bengaluru
Opposition leader R. Ashoka has strongly criticised the Congress government, accusing it of ignoring farmers amid the ongoing tussle for the Chief Minister’s chair. He said CM Siddaramaiah and DCM D.K. Shivakumar are prioritising power over the livelihoods of Karnataka’s food providers.
Highlighting the plight of farmers, Ashoka cited a tragic incident in Gurlapur where a protesting farmer attempted suicide by consuming poison. “No minister from this heartless government visited him or offered support. The Sugar Minister, Agriculture Minister, and District In-Charge Minister have all gone into hiding,” he said, questioning whether basic humanity has been abandoned in the corridors of power.
Ashoka also demanded clarity on maize procurement centers, asking if CM Siddaramaiah is waiting for permission from the Delhi High Command or leaders like Rahul Gandhi and Randeep Surjewala to act on farmers’ demands.
Reflecting on his three decades in politics, he condemned the government as anti-farmer and insensitive. “No drought relief, no additional support price, no timely procurement centers, no irrigation projects, no response to distressed farmers – this is the legacy of this government,” he said. Ashoka warned that the opposition’s struggle will continue until the government is held accountable for neglecting farmers’ welfare while securing its political positions.