Karnataka BJP President and MLA B.Y. Vijayendra criticized the Congress government for neglecting farmers in drought-affected areas of North and Kalyana Karnataka. He called for urgent compensation of Rs 50,000 per acre for affected farmers, citing the dire situation in Bidar, Kalaburagi, and Yadgir districts where rainfall has been minimal. Vijayendra highlighted that over 30 lakh hectares of agricultural land have been affected by the lack of rainfall, leading to significant distress among farmers who are unable to cultivate major crops like tur, sunflower, and cotton.
Vijayendra slammed Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar’s visit to Basavakalyan as a mere “photo shoot,” alleging that the government has not provided substantial relief to farmers. He emphasized the need for immediate action, urging the state government to disburse a minimum compensation of Rs 50,000 per acre to assist farmers during this crisis. The BJP leader also accused the Congress government of neglecting the Anubhava Mantapa project, which had received funding during the previous BJP government’s tenure.
Responding to queries about internal disputes within the BJP’s Bidar district unit, Vijayendra mentioned convening a core committee meeting to address local issues harmoniously. He refuted claims of any collusion between BJP legislators in Bidar and Congress, reaffirming the BJP’s commitment to advocating for farmers and the public. Vijayendra disclosed plans for the BJP’s core committee to strategize and escalate the party’s efforts to support drought-affected farmers effectively at the district and state levels.
