Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, chairing a crucial Congress Legislative Party (CLP) meeting, launched a strong attack against the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), accusing the opposition of deliberately instigating farmers and misleading the public. The Chief Minister expressed deep dissatisfaction with the central government's alleged inaction, particularly concerning key agricultural issues in the state. He asserted that the BJP is attempting to shift the blame onto the state government even after his administration has addressed major farmer demands.
The Chief Minister specifically highlighted the BJP's failure to support farmers cultivating sugarcane and maize, noting that the Union Government did not step forward to aid these sections. Despite this inaction from the Centre, he accused the BJP of unnecessarily instigating and encouraging farmers' protests. In contrast, CM Siddaramaiah pointed out that the state government actively intervened by ensuring the direct purchase of maize from farmers and fulfilling the long-standing demands of sugarcane growers. However, he lamented that the BJP continues to falsely propagate the narrative that the state government is at fault regarding farmer issues.
In a directive to all party MLAs attending the CLP meet, CM Siddaramaiah emphasized the necessity of actively challenging the opposition's narrative by highlighting the Centre's negligence. He specifically instructed the legislators to aggressively point out the failures of the Union Government regarding agriculture and irrigation, particularly when addressing issues concerning North Karnataka. He stressed that the Congress government has made significant contributions and provided ample facilities to the North Karnataka region, and it is the responsibility of every MLA to effectively communicate this truth to the public.
Furthermore, the Chief Minister addressed internal dissent within the party regarding the flagship Guarantee Schemes. He strictly cautioned the MLAs against expressing any disapproval or negative opinions concerning the guarantee schemes in public or private forums. He issued a clear directive that legislators should refrain from making statements that suggest the state government is facing a financial crunch. Instead, he urged all Congress representatives to focus their legislative discussions and public addresses more intensely on the problems and developmental needs of North Karnataka, ensuring that the party's focus remains on governance and regional welfare.
Finally, CM Siddaramaiah stressed the need for increased participation from Congress MLAs in both the Upper and Lower Houses of the state legislature. He urged the legislators to be more vocal and proactive in debates, especially when discussing issues of public importance, thereby projecting a strong and united front against the opposition and showcasing the government's commitment to the people of Karnataka.
