Why Are Karnataka Truckers Halting Deliveries Under the Anna Bhagya Scheme?
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Synopsis
Karnataka truck owners have halted rice deliveries under the Anna Bhagya scheme due to unpaid dues totaling Rs 250 crore. This strike is impacting free rice distribution to the needy, raising questions about the government's financial commitments and its ability to support vulnerable families. Will this lead to further unrest among the state's truck drivers?
Key Takeaways
- Karnataka truck owners have halted rice deliveries due to unpaid dues.
- The outstanding amount is Rs 250 crore.
- The Anna Bhagya scheme provides 10 kg of free rice to BPL families.
- Approximately 3,500 to 4,000 drivers are in crisis.
- This situation raises questions about the government's financial capabilities.
Bengaluru, July 7 (NationPress) Truck owners in Karnataka have ceased the delivery of rice intended for free distribution as part of the Anna Bhagya scheme initiated by the Siddaramaiah administration.
The President of the Retail Transport Contractors’ Association, Shanmugappa, announced on Monday that trucks stopped operations starting midnight on Sunday.
“Both Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar have not met their commitment to settle the transportation dues for trucks that have facilitated the rice distribution across the state from February to June. The outstanding amount sums up to Rs 250 crore,” he remarked.
Shanmugappa expressed concern about truck drivers and owners suffering financial hardships. Many are resorting to loans and risking their livelihoods. Several individuals are even pawning their jewelry to afford diesel and cover transportation costs,” he stated.
He also mentioned that finance companies providing vehicle loans have started to repossess trucks as owners struggle to meet EMI payments. He criticized the government, noting that the Secretary of the Food Department had assured that payments would be made by June 19, but no action has been taken to date.
The trucks have delivered a total of 25 lakh tonnes of rice to district and taluk centers statewide. Due to governmental negligence, approximately 3,500 to 4,000 truck drivers are now facing a crisis, he added.
This situation is likely to cause delays in the distribution of free rice to beneficiaries and may reignite discussions regarding the Congress-led government's alleged inability to secure adequate funds.
Under the Anna Bhagya scheme, a flagship initiative of the Congress government, the state distributes 10 kilograms of free rice per individual to families classified under the Below Poverty Line (BPL). The government claims it is providing free rice to 4.42 crore individuals from 1.19 crore BPL and Antyodaya card-holding families in Karnataka.
In the meantime, Karnataka BJP President and MLA B.Y. Vijayendra asserted on Monday that the Congress-led government is gradually attempting to terminate the free rice scheme.
“The government had promised to provide 10 kilograms of free rice, which includes 5 kilograms supplied by the Centre. Now, they plan to distribute Indira Kits instead of free rice. Their goal is to save Rs 700 to Rs 800 crore, using the justification that beneficiaries are reselling the free rice,” he alleged.
Point of View
The situation in Karnataka highlights significant governance challenges. The ongoing strike by truck owners, driven by unmet financial obligations, raises concerns about the government's commitment to vital welfare programs. It underscores the need for accountability and timely action to support vulnerable populations.
NationPress
08/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are Karnataka truck owners halting deliveries?
Karnataka truck owners have ceased deliveries due to unpaid transportation dues of Rs 250 crore owed by the state government.
What is the Anna Bhagya scheme?
The Anna Bhagya scheme is a government initiative providing 10 kilograms of free rice per person to families classified under the Below Poverty Line (BPL).
How many truck drivers are affected by this halt?
Approximately 3,500 to 4,000 truck drivers are currently facing a crisis due to the halt in deliveries.
What is the government’s response to the strike?
The government has yet to address the concerns raised by truck owners and has not fulfilled promised payments.
What are the implications of this strike?
The strike is expected to cause delays in rice distribution to beneficiaries and may lead to further discussions about the government's financial management.
