Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah Questions Centre Over 'Delay' In Providing Drought Relief

Siddaramaiah pointed out that 216 out of the state's total 236 taluks were drought-hit.

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah directed questions at the Central government and Prime Minister Modi highlighting a delay in delivering drought relief to the state. Expressing concerns, Siddaramaiah asked whether the BJP-led government was potentially taking "revenge" against Karnataka. According to PTI, Siddaramaiah said there was no response from the BJP-led NDA government even though the Central team that visited the state to study the situation was convinced about it. He pointed out that 216 out of the state's total 236 taluks were drought-hit.

Taking to X, formerly known as Twitter, Siddaramaiah said, "It is time to recollect the threats posed by @BJP4India leaders to Kannadigas during the elections. The result of which we are seeing now. Why are the BJP MPs & Union Government ministers silent over extending drought relief to Karnataka? Is it because of their hate towards Kannadigas?"

In another post, he said, "The then BJP-ruled states like Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Rajasthan received a downpour of relief funds, while Karnataka barely saw a drizzle."

"The persistent neglect is evident. It's high time to ensure justice for Karnataka," he said.

In multiple posters with the hashtag #AnswerMadiModi (answer Modi), the Chief Minister said that drought-hit Karnataka is facing a staggering loss of Rs 33,770 crore, and despite a plea for Rs 17,901 crore in relief, the Centre remains "silent".

Further, he asked, "Why no love for Karnataka? In 2017, drought-stricken Karnataka received Rs 1,435 crore but BJP-led states got: Maharashtra - Rs 8,185 crore, Gujarat - Rs 3,894 crore and Rajasthan - Rs 2,153 crore. Where's the financial fairness, Prime Minister?"