Belagavi, Nov 4 (NationPress) Targeting the Congress-led government in Karnataka, State BJP President and MLA, B.Y. Vijayendra, expressed his concerns on Tuesday, stating that state ministers and government officials are neglecting the plight of farmers suffering due to severe rainfall while seeking compensation from the government.

"The District In-Charge Minister has shown a total lack of concern; similarly, departmental officials have been indifferent; neither the Revenue nor the Agriculture Ministers have visited North Karnataka," alleged BJP leader Vijayendra.

In a media interaction, he highlighted ongoing protests by sugarcane farmers in Belagavi, Bagalkot, Bijapur, and surrounding areas.

Vijayendra stressed that the Congress government must address the valid demands of sugarcane farmers statewide.

He cautioned that the state government is ignoring farmers’ needs and that the BJP will advocate on their behalf.

With sugarcane production contributing approximately Rs 50,000-55,000 crore in revenue through taxes on molasses and ethanol, he questioned, "Isn't it the government's duty to listen to farmers in distress?"

Farmers are increasingly doubtful about the commitment of the Congress-led state government toward their welfare and that of sugarcane growers, he added.

"Thousands of farmers are voicing their discontent against the Karnataka government. It’s crucial for the government to acknowledge its responsibilities and act swiftly," he stated.

"The state government has failed to recognize its obligations, and as the opposition, we are committed to serve. We must support farmers who feed our nation, irrespective of party affiliations. Therefore, I have come to stand with the farmers’ protest after consulting with our party leaders," he emphasized.

Recalling events from 2014, he stated, "During the Winter session in Belagavi, farmer Vithal Arabavi tragically lost his life over sugarcane pricing issues. Yediyurappa protested and successfully pressured the then Chief Minister for an additional Rs 150 per ton."

When asked about recent political dynamics, he remarked, "A battle for the Chief Minister's position has intensified in recent days. The extent of this will be clearer after the Bihar election results."

"The farmers of the state are currently facing tremendous hardships. I toured the Kalyana Karnataka region during the heavy rains, and our opposition leaders also visited Gulbarga, Yadgir, and Raichur, which he noted," he added.

In response to inquiries, Vijayendra reiterated the urgent need for the state government to address farmers' grievances.