Raichur (Karnataka), Oct 22 (NationPress) Karnataka's Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar emphasized on Wednesday that if the BJP leaders genuinely prioritize the welfare of the state, they should unite and exert pressure on the Central government to expedite key irrigation initiatives such as Upper Krishna, Mekedatu, and Mahadayi.

During a meeting with Congress workers at Panchamukhi in Raichur district, Shivakumar, who also serves as the KPCC President, addressed the attendees.

“To the BJP leaders, I am open to discussions at your convenience. I have appealed nearly ten times to Union Ministers and the Prime Minister without any response. The Rs 5,300 crore allocated in the Central budget remains unreleased, indicating a lack of concern from both the BJP and the Central government towards the farmers,” he remarked.

“Our five guarantees reflect our commitment to the people who have empowered us. Following the damage to the TB reservoir gates last year, we faced criticism from the opposition. However, we worked tirelessly to repair them within a week. Orders have now been issued to replace all gates. I attempted three times to meet the Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh regarding this matter, but he has not allocated any time for us. Due to silt buildup, 30 TMC of water is being wasted. We are striving to find alternative solutions, yet Andhra Pradesh is uncooperative,” he expressed with disappointment.

“Wherever Rahul Gandhi conducted the Bharat Jodo Yatra, Congress emerged victorious. Rahul Gandhi has empowered us. Sonia Gandhi turned down the Prime Ministerial position twice, insisting that Manmohan Singh lead for the country's benefit. Would any of you be willing to relinquish even a panchayat seat?” he questioned.

“Our initiatives consider the needs of the underprivileged, which is why we introduced five guarantees. Despite opposition claims that these schemes would bankrupt the government, states like Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh have now adopted similar initiatives. In Bihar, they are offering women Rs 10,000 at once, demonstrating the influence of our guarantee models. We have empowered you to connect with the people confidently,” he conveyed to the workers.

“We support farmers through irrigation schemes by providing free electricity for their pump sets, costing us Rs 20,000 crore annually. We have invested Rs 53,000 crore in the guarantee schemes alone. Including all welfare programs across various departments, our government is channeling Rs 1 lakh crore into the hands of the populace each year,” he stated.

“These endeavors fortify your position. The Congress government has introduced significant policies like bank nationalization, the Food Security Act, midday meals for children, pensions, and NREGA. Has the BJP ever initiated such programs for the poor? It is clear that the Congress government is dedicated to the welfare of the underprivileged.

“Party members must work harmoniously without divisions. Unity is crucial to fortify the organization. There should be no factions; we are all part of the Congress group. You must live like siblings under one mother,” Shivakumar concluded.