KRRS Demands Immediate Drought Relief, Slams Governments
KRRS chief Badagalapura Nagendra demands drought relief, loan waiver, and action on Cauvery release, criticizing both state and central governments.
The Karnataka Rajya Raitha Sangha (KRRS) has strongly criticized both the state government and the opposition for what it calls "theatrics" amid a severe drought, demanding immediate formulation of relief programmes for distressed farmers.
Addressing a press conference in Mysuru on Tuesday, KRRS chief Badagalapura Nagendra said the state is facing an unprecedented drought, but the government is resorting to an "eyewash" while the opposition stages a "drama on the streets." He accused both the Centre and the state of failing to take precautionary measures despite early warnings, and now citing technicalities instead of acting.
Nagendra expressed grave concern over rising farmer suicides, cattle deaths due to lack of fodder and water, and large-scale migration due to acute drinking water shortage. He urged the state government to use its own resources to provide compensation for crop losses and other relief, without waiting for NDRF/SDRF norms or central funds.
The KRRS also demanded that banks be instructed to stop loan recovery from farmers during the crisis. It called for a 50:50 sharing of crop loan waiver between the Centre and the state, and a unanimous resolution in the upcoming special session. MPs from Karnataka were urged to press the Centre for funds and loan waiver.
Nagendra announced plans for a massive statewide agitation next week to protest the governments' negligence. The KRRS also expressed dismay over the release of Cauvery water to Tamil Nadu as per the Cauvery Water Management Authority's directions, calling it a betrayal and urging the state government to take a political decision protecting Karnataka's interests.