The Aryavarth Express
Agency(Karnataka): The Congress party has leveled serious accusations against the Modi government, highlighting its alleged inaction in the face of a dire water crisis and severe drought conditions afflicting Karnataka. According to Congress general secretary for communications, Jairam Ramesh, the state is grappling with acute drought, affecting 223 of its 236 talukas. This statement coincided with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Shivamogga, Karnataka, where the Congress urged him to address the state’s pressing issues.
Ramesh criticized the central government for not responding to Karnataka’s request for a substantial drought relief fund of Rs 18,172 crore. He emphasized the state’s dire need for central assistance to mitigate the drought’s impact on its rural economy and populace.
In an effort to alleviate the economic strain on its rural communities, the Karnataka government has proposed extending the working days under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS) from 100 to 150 days. However, Ramesh claimed that the Modi government has neither approved this extension nor released Rs 1,600 crore owed for MGNREGS wages, leaving many workers unpaid.
The Congress spokesperson also highlighted disruptions to Karnataka’s Anna Bhagya Scheme, aimed at providing additional rice to impoverished families. Despite an initial agreement from the Food Corporation of India (FCI) to supply the necessary rice at a subsidized rate, the deal was later retracted, according to Ramesh. He questioned whether FCI’s refusal, amidst its surplus rice stocks and unsuccessful attempts to sell rice in private markets, could be perceived as political retribution.
Amidst these allegations, Ramesh also pointed out the representation of Shivamogga in the Lok Sabha by B.Y. Raghavendra and the position of Karnataka State BJP Chief by B.Y. Vijayendra, both sons of former BJP Chief Minister B.S. Yediyurappa. He challenged Prime Minister Modi to address the issue of political ‘dynasty’ during his visit to Shivamogga and to break his silence on the aforementioned concerns affecting Karnataka.
