MANDYA, 28 JULY

Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Monday launched development projects worth Rs 1,146 crore in Maddur and hit out at the BJP, questioning its contribution to Karnataka during its tenure.

“If there is no money, would it have been possible to launch development works worth crores of rupees?” he said, dismissing BJP claims that the State is facing a financial crunch.

He said the Congress government had taken up extensive developmental works in two years, unlike the previous BJP regime, which he alleged had no notable achievements in its four-year term.

Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar announced an allocation of Rs 500 crore for canal development in Maddur and highlighted ongoing efforts to bring an agricultural university to Mandya.

Siddaramaiah also accused the BJP of spreading misinformation on fertiliser availability and blamed the Centre for inadequate urea supplies.

“The Centre was supposed to send 6.8 lakh MT of urea, but supplied only 5.16 lakh MT. I have already written to them, requesting additional fertiliser considering the early monsoon and increased sowing acreage,” he said.

He pointed out that fertiliser shortages were also being reported from BJP-ruled states like Madhya Pradesh and Haryana, and asserted that it was the Centre's duty to supply urea while the State’s role is limited to distribution.

“Instead of protesting, BJP leaders like BY Vijayendra, R Ashoka and MPs should meet Union Minister JP Nadda and ensure Karnataka gets the required supply,” Siddaramaiah said.

He also urged Union Minister HD Kumaraswamy, who represents Mandya in Parliament, to intervene and secure fertiliser for Karnataka rather than backing protest campaigns.

Shivakumar, Agriculture Minister N Cheluvarayaswamy and several Congress MLAs and ministers were present at the event. Both Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar extended support to Maddur MLA KM Uday.

BJP Kisan Morcha begins protest over 'shortage of urea'

The BJP Kisan Morcha on Monday launched a week-long protest against the Congress government, alleging mismanagement and a shortage of urea in the State.

Demonstrations were held in Davangere, Koppal and Dharwad, demanding immediate intervention to ensure fertiliser availability. In Davangere, former minister MP Renukacharya led the protest and was detained along with others.

State BJP President BY Vijayendra accused the Congress government of creating an “artificial shortage” through poor planning. Leader of Opposition R Ashoka said the State had failed to ensure timely procurement and storage of fertiliser despite the early arrival of the monsoon.

The BJP said it would intensify protests in the coming days across the State.