In light of the reports indicating a rainfall deficit in Karnataka, the state's BJP unit has undertaken the task of conducting a comprehensive assessment of the drought situation. To accomplish this, they have organized 17 teams dedicated to this specific mission. However, Karnataka's Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has criticized the BJP's initiative, characterizing their drought assessment efforts as a mere "farce."
The BJP, in a formal statement, has announced its intention to furnish a comprehensive report to the government by November 10, with the assessment activities set to commence on November 3.
Responding to the BJP's plan, Siddaramaiah took the opportunity to critique the party by stating, "Dear BJP leaders, your very own party's government has dispatched a team of experts from Delhi to evaluate the drought situation in Karnataka. Now, you are embarking on a similar tour. Do you not trust your government's own drought study team?"
Siddaramaiah also highlighted that the state government's study estimated the financial losses incurred due to the drought to be around Rs 33,770 crore. Consequently, they have submitted a request for Rs 17,901 crore in relief funds from the Central government.
Accusing the Central government of failing to release drought relief funds to the state, Siddaramaiah suggested that the BJP leaders would be better off channeling their efforts toward Delhi rather than touring within the state. He recommended, "You (BJP leaders) should take your 25 Lok Sabha members to Delhi, meet with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and request the release of relief funds."
The drought assessment initiative will feature the active participation of prominent BJP leaders in the state, including former Minister CT Ravi, Karnataka BJP President Nalin Kumar Kateel, former Minister KS Eshwarappa, and MLA BY Vijayendra.
