New Delhi/Bengaluru, Dec 8 (NationPress) Union Minister for Heavy Industries and Steel H. D. Kumaraswamy, in response to the Karnataka government's demand for securing clearances from the Centre regarding the Mekedatu project, accused the Siddaramaiah-led administration of misleading the public through padayatras featuring slogans such as 'our water, our right' to consolidate power, all while the project is at a standstill.

The Supreme Court has instructed the state to present its case to the Central Water Commission (CWC). Kumaraswamy questioned, “Why not have discussions with your political allies in Tamil Nadu?”

During a press conference held in Delhi on Monday, he highlighted that approximately 12,000 acres of forest land would be inundated in the Mekedatu area, leading to significant environmental repercussions.

“Both the Centre and the state government hold rights and obligations. Why evade these responsibilities? It has been over 75 years since our Independence. For nearly half of this period, the Congress held power both at the Centre and in the state. What actions did you take regarding Mekedatu during those years? The public deserves answers,” he emphasized.

Kumaraswamy also lambasted the state government for consistently blaming the Centre for a lack of cooperation.

“If that’s your excuse, what actions is the state government taking? Shortly after my appointment as a Union Minister, I approved financial guarantees for the Kudremukh iron and steel plant Deodari mining project for the state's benefit.

“Yet, from the very next day, the state government started creating obstructions. Currently, a representative from their party is inciting daily protests in Ballari, rallying people and obstructing the project solely for personal gain from NMDC. If this is how cooperation works, how can development occur?” he questioned.

Kumaraswamy further launched a vehement attack on Chief Minister Siddaramaiah regarding his contributions to Mandya, challenging him to enumerate his achievements during his tenure.

“I will clearly outline my contributions. Before that, let the Chief Minister account for what he accomplished during his five years in office,” Kumaraswamy insisted.

The Union Minister stated: “I will discuss my contributions. Mr. Siddaramaiah, what have you done for farmers? What is your contribution to Mandya? During your previous five-year term (2013-2018), over 200 farmers in Mandya district lost their lives. Is that your legacy? When I assumed power amidst that crisis, I waived off Rs 900 crore of farmers’ loans in the same district. Isn’t that a contribution? Under your governance, farmers lost their lives; under my administration, lives were preserved. Keep that in mind.”

Kumaraswamy further condemned the state government for its mishandling of agrarian distress.

“Look at the plight of farmers today. While floods and heavy rains wreak havoc on lives, you are celebrating. What is the state of red gram (tur) farmers in Kalyana Karnataka? Prices have plummeted. What measures have you taken? You haven’t even established procurement centers to date. The state government should have intervened promptly to assist farmers. Why didn’t it?” he queried.

Regarding the delayed request for a central inspection team, he added: “After four months, they have suddenly realized the urgency. If a central team visits now, what report will it issue?”