R Ashoka demands a meeting to discuss Hemavati water distribution issue

BENGALURU: The government should hold a meeting with all farmers and key leaders from all parties to discuss the Hemavati water distribution issue and withdraw cases filed against farmers, demanded the  Opposition Leader R Ashoka on Monday.

Speaking at a press conference, he said that when Tumakuru farmers protested against supplying Hemavati water to Magadi, the state government should have discussed the issue with representatives and farmers from both districts.

The BJP leader alleged that the state government has created divisions among farmers. Threatening farmers instead of convincing them is not right. All farmers should be treated equally, and cases should not be filed against religious leaders or elected representatives. Even Congress MLA Gubbi Srinivas has opposed this, Ashoka noted.

Filing cases against farmers is an unforgivable offence. The government should hold discussions with farmers to find a resolution. Deputy CM D K Shivakumar’s position is at stake, and without power, he has nothing. The state government must call an all-party meeting from both districts, make a decision, and withdraw the cases, Ashoka demanded.

In Dakshina Kannada, a task force has been formed to file cases against Hindu leaders. This is not a force against communalism but against Hindus, he said. Previous officers were transferred, and preferred officers were appointed. Cases are being filed long after incidents occur. “If false allegations are made and cases are filed against Hindu activists, we will take to the streets and protest,” he warned.

He claimed Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar’s party is not providing funds to the coastal region. People there are not surviving on Congress’s charity; Congress leaders are living off public money. He demanded that D K Shivakumar apologise to the coastal people.

“Has any development work taken place since the formation of Greater Bengaluru? All roads in Bengaluru are riddled with potholes, and the government lacks the competence to repair them. Garbage disposal contractors have not been paid since January. Contracts are given to out-of-state parties, creating a garbage lobby. In such a situation, how will they face the public in BBMP elections?” he questioned.

“To demand the Mekedatu project, we are ready to protest and throw stones in front of the Tamil Nadu government. Is Deputy CM ready for this? Departments are not getting funds, and ministers are unable to work. KSRTC has not received funds. Jowar procurement centres have not been paid. Government hospitals lack funds for salaries,” he said.

No screening of actor Kamal Haasan’s films should be allowed. When it comes to Kannada, everyone must be clear. All Kannada artists should speak in favour of Kannada, he added. (ANI)