Intro
CPM demands drought declaration for Kalaburagi, urges immediate relief measures amid water shortages and agricultural distress across Kalyana Karnataka
Kalaburagi
Workers of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) staged a protest outside the Kalaburagi Zilla Panchayat office, demanding that the state government immediately declare Kalaburagi district and the entire Kalyana Karnataka region as drought-hit areas.
The protesters gathered at Jagat Circle and later took out a procession towards the Zilla Panchayat office, raising slogans against both the state and Central governments over their response to the emerging drought situation.
Addressing the gathering, CPI(M) district secretary K. Neela said that Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar had already acknowledged drought-like conditions prevailing in several parts of the state. He said inadequate rainfall has affected water sources and agricultural activities in Kalaburagi district.
“Due to insufficient rainfall, many water bodies are drying up and sowing activities have reduced significantly. The government should immediately declare Kalaburagi and the Kalyana Karnataka region as drought-affected areas and announce relief measures,” he demanded.
The CPI(M) leaders urged the government to invoke provisions of the Disaster Management Act and provide immediate assistance to affected communities. They demanded arrangements for drinking water supply, cattle fodder, and employment opportunities for people facing difficulties due to drought conditions.
The protesters also called for expansion of employment opportunities under rural and urban employment guarantee schemes. They demanded implementation of a food-for-work programme to support vulnerable families struggling due to loss of livelihood.
The party alleged that drought situations often lead to exploitation by middlemen, who increase prices of essential commodities by taking advantage of shortages. They urged the government to take steps to control price rise and protect consumers.
The CPI(M) criticised the expenditure on large public events and political programmes while people were facing serious hardships due to drought conditions.
Several party leaders and workers participated in the protest, including Meenakshi Bali, Sudham Dhanni, Prabhu Pyarabuddi, Shrimant Biradar, Shivasharanappa Mulegaon, Shanta Ghanti, Chandamma Gola, and Pandurang Mavinkar.
The protesters submitted their demands to the district administration and urged immediate government action to address the growing concerns of farmers and rural communities.