Drought row: H.K. Patil’s resignation threat gives BJP fresh ammunition against Karnataka govt

Bengaluru: BJP state president B Y Vijayendra has criticised the Karnataka government over its handling of the drought situation, alleging delays in declaring affected areas and providing relief to farmers.

In a post on X, Vijayendra questioned whether the government had failed farmers amid crop losses and deficient rainfall. He also cited Congress MLA H K Patil’s reported dissatisfaction over the delay in drought declaration and relief measures, including his warning that he would resign if adequate action was not taken.

The BJP leader questioned whether visits by Chief Minister D K Shivakumar and district in-charge minister Basavaraj Rayareddy to drought-affected areas had resulted in the promised assistance reaching farmers.

Vijayendra recalled that the BJP had raised similar concerns during its Ballari Chalo padayatra, alleging disparities in the identification of drought-hit areas and relief measures.

The state government, however, has said drought assessment is being carried out scientifically and in phases. Shivakumar has said more taluks would be included based on technical reports.

So far, 101 taluks have been declared drought-hit, with the government announcing a 12-month moratorium on repayment of Kisan Credit Card, agricultural and allied-sector loans in affected taluks.

Vijayendra has also reiterated the BJP’s demand for complete farm-loan waivers and immediate relief for affected farmers, urging the government to focus on assistance rather than political differences during the drought.