Intro: R. Ashoka said it was inappropriate to demand funds without officially announcing drought conditions.
Davanagere
Opposition Leader R. Ashoka criticised the Karnataka government for not declaring the state as drought-affected while seeking financial assistance from the Centre.
Ashoka made the remarks after leading a BJP drought assessment team that visited Nerlige village in Davanagere district to study the impact of rainfall deficiency and crop losses. He urged the state government to immediately declare drought and take measures to support farmers.
He said only around 19 per cent of sowing had been completed in Davanagere district due to poor rainfall, while arecanut plantations had suffered severe damage. Criticising the compensation announced for crop losses, he said the amount provided for damaged arecanut trees was insufficient.
Ashoka questioned the state government’s demand for ₹10,000 crore assistance from the Centre without declaring drought. “On what basis is the government seeking funds? Without a drought declaration, how can assistance be provided?” he asked.
He alleged that the state treasury was empty and accused the government of failing to provide funds for welfare schemes, pensions and farmer support. He challenged the government to release a white paper on its financial position.
The opposition leader demanded compensation for damaged arecanut and coconut trees, allocation of ₹50 crore for each Assembly constituency, and immediate solutions to fodder and drinking water problems. He said the BJP would raise the issue in the Assembly after completing drought studies across the state.
Ashoka also criticised the government over water release from reservoirs to Tamil Nadu and alleged that the state’s interests were being ignored. He said Bengaluru, Mandya and Mysuru could face water shortages if adequate precautions were not taken.
The BJP drought assessment team included former minister Byrathi Basavaraj, MLA B.P. Harish and other party leaders.
Quote
The government has failed to understand the problems of people and is instead focusing on political activities. The achievements of Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar are zero.
- R. Ashoka, Opposition Leader
State govt over drought relief and treasury crisis
- Low Sowing & Crop Damage: Only 19% of sowing is complete in Davanagere due to poor rainfall, and arecanut plantations have suffered severe damage with insufficient compensation provided.
- Central Assistance Questioned: Criticized the state for demanding 10,000 crore rupees from the Centre without officially declaring a drought.
- Financial Allegations: Accused the government of an empty treasury, failing to fund welfare schemes, and challenged it to release a white paper on its finances.