Siddaramaiah criticises JD(S)-BJP alliance in Karnataka

Dharwad: Chief Minister Siddaramaiah who strongly criticised the JD(S)-BJP alliance in Karnataka, asserted that it has vindicated his earlier assessments.

He was speaking to reporters during his visit to Dharwad on Saturday.

"I used to refer to JD(S) as the B team of BJP. At that time, JD(S) leaders took offense to my remarks. Now, events have proven me right. JD(S), despite its name suggesting secularism, is now aligning with communal forces. Deve Gowda used to claim there would be no collaboration with any party. They lack any steadfast principles. They are willing to do anything for power," Siddaramaiah attacked.

Addressing concerns over power shortages faced by farmers, Siddaramaiah attributed the issue to a lack of rainfall in the state throughout August.

"The state experienced a rain deficit in August. Farmers are resorting to using pump sets as they would during summer. Consequently, power consumption has surged. We are procuring additional power from external sources to meet the demand," he explained.

Regarding the Mahadayi Project, Siddaramaiah accused the Central government of delaying the necessary forest and environmental clearances.

"Let them grant the required clearances, and we will commence work the very next day. We are prepared," he affirmed.

He also stated that the state government is awaiting permission to take an all-party delegation to the Prime Minister

"After convening an all-party meeting in Karnataka on Mahadayi, Upper Krishna, Mekedatu, Kaveri, and drought-related issues, we penned a letter three weeks ago, seeking time for a meeting with the Prime Minister. We have not yet received a response," he said.

Siddaramaiah urged the Central government to revise the guidelines concerning drought relief.

"While the state government is committed to implementing measures such as providing water, employment, and alternative seeds to assist the people, Central government assistance is imperative. The norms for drought relief should be reviewed biennially, yet the last revision was in 2020. We have written to the Central government," he said.

Responding to inquiries about a potential foray into national politics, Siddaramaiah affirmed his disinterest.

"I have no inclination towards national politics. I address issues based on their merits, not for the sake of targeting Modi," he concluded.