Bengaluru: Leader of Opposition R. Ashoka on Thursday alleged that the Karnataka government had failed to adequately address the demands raised by the BJP over the drought situation and said his party would take the issue directly to the people.
Addressing reporters, Ashoka said the BJP had sought a minimum ₹25,000 per acre compensation for drought-hit farmers and measures to prevent migration from affected villages. He alleged that the government’s proposed assistance of ₹2,500 per farmer was inadequate.
Ashoka claimed that drought conditions had intensified drinking-water shortages, affected livestock and borewell availability and contributed to power-related difficulties in several areas. He also referred to alleged farmer distress and microfinance-related harassment in parts of Mandya district.
Ashoka alleged that the state government had announced ₹1 crore per Assembly constituency for drinking-water measures but claimed that the funds had not yet been released. He also questioned the pace of preparation of drought-related action plans.
The BJP leader said the party was prepared to join an all-party delegation to the Centre, as proposed by Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, but insisted that the state government should first address the opposition’s demands.
Ashoka also criticised government spending on various committees and alleged that adequate resources were not being provided for farmers affected by drought.
Ashoka claimed that Karnataka was facing a 36% rainfall deficit, with the southern interior region recording a larger shortfall, and alleged that the government was under financial pressure.
He further claimed that the state may need to borrow around ₹1.5 lakh crore during the current financial year and questioned the government’s borrowing calculations.
Ashoka also compared debt levels across successive state governments and alleged that borrowing during Siddaramaiah’s tenure had reached a record level.
The Congress government has previously maintained that drought relief and water-management measures are being undertaken based on the situation and available resources. Ashoka said the BJP would now take the farmers’ concerns to the “people’s court” rather than limiting the issue to discussions with the Centre.
