Karnataka BJP Slams Govt Over Dasara Lighting, Demands Power Supply for Farmers

Bengaluru, Oct 22 : Senior BJP leader R Ashoka on Thursday criticised the Karnataka government over its decision to extend the decorative lighting in Mysuru following Dasara, demanding at least one hour of daily three-phase electricity supply to farmers facing drought conditions.

In a statement, Ashoka alleged that the government was prioritising festive extravagance over farmers' distress, with crops drying up due to inadequate water and electricity supply.

Questioning the proposed extension of the illumination, he urged Chief Minister D K Shivakumar to ensure an adequate power supply to agricultural pump sets to help farmers protect their crops.

"Your pomp and show will not change the lives of farmers. Enough of extravagance; pay attention to governance," Ashoka said, alleging that crores of rupees were being spent on decorations while farmers struggled to secure sufficient electricity for irrigation.

He questioned whether the government would provide at least one hour of daily three-phase power to agricultural fields where crops were drying up, and called for greater attention to farmers' livelihoods.

Meanwhile, Shivakumar has said that he would lead an all-party delegation to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi to seek drought relief for Karnataka. Opposition leaders have also expressed their willingness to join the delegation, he said.

Shivakumar said the delegation would submit a memorandum seeking assistance for the state, noting that drought had affected several parts of the country.

The meeting would be scheduled between the conclusion of Dasara and Kannada Rajyotsava, subject to the Prime Minister's availability, he added.