Belagavi (Karnataka), Dec 9 (NationPress) In response to the Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) initiative to hold a significant protest, Deputy Chief Minister and state Congress president D.K. Shivakumar stated on Tuesday that the focus of the protest should be directed towards the Centre instead of the state government.

Shivakumar emphasized that farmers are facing immense pressure due to the Centre’s policies concerning maize, sugarcane, and ethanol. He pointed out that none of the outstanding grants owed to Karnataka have been disbursed.

He also criticized the Centre for failing to address issues related to the Mahadayi project, which would have benefitted the farmers in Karnataka.

“We achieved justice in the Mekedatu situation only after a prolonged struggle. They asserted they could secure the necessary approvals in just one day, yet nothing has materialized. Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman pledged Rs 5,400 crore in the budget, but not a single paisa has been allocated,” he remarked.

Shivakumar accused BJP officials of lacking accountability on these critical matters. “BJP leaders display no sense of responsibility. None of the BJP MPs have spoken about these issues,” he stated.

While addressing reporters at the Belagavi airport, he mentioned that the current winter session will tackle issues concerning farmers, the Minimum Support Price, and the pressing need to urge the Union government to release overdue payments.

When queried about the overarching agenda of the session, he expressed confidence that both the ruling and opposition factions would deliberate on the significant issues facing the state. “Why is the Centre not stepping in to assist farmers? Why is it withholding support? Where is the MSP funding? Why is the central government not buying crops? Numerous matters, including sugar prices, warrant discussion. We must urge the Union government on all these fronts,” he asserted.

He mentioned that developmental needs in North Karnataka require immediate attention, and the state will once again push the Centre for financial support. “Many projects need to be initiated, particularly in North Karnataka, and we must pressure the Centre to release the pending funds. These matters will be on the agenda for the session,” he indicated.

When asked about the BJP’s decision to protest alongside farmers against the state government, he criticized their stance.

“Has the BJP government ever made such impactful decisions for farmers during its time in office? We have committed to purchasing maize. We have supported farmers regarding the sugarcane issue. Sugar factory owners claim they will face losses and may need to shut down. However, it is the central government that determines prices for these crops. For the past decade, the Centre has not increased sugar prices. Why, then, is the Union government not offering assistance?” he questioned.

He insisted that even if factories suffer losses, farmers must be prioritized. The struggle should be against the central government, adding that the BJP appears to have no substantial issues to address, which is why they are making these statements.