Archive · 22 Jul 2026
Opposition urges Karnataka to declare drought
The Leader of the Opposition in Karnataka, R Ashok, has accused the Congress government of ignoring the severe drought crisis in the state.
He urged the government to immediately declare drought and provide compensation to affected farmers.
Ashok highlighted that 157 taluks have been declared drought-affected, 5,862 lakes have dried up, and farmers are facing severe problems due to lack of water and fodder.
He also mentioned that 31 farmers have committed suicide in the last two months.
Ashok criticized the government for not taking proactive measures and alleged that Cauvery water is being allowed to flow to Tamil Nadu instead of being used in Karnataka.
He demanded that the government release funds from the State Disaster Response Fund and take comprehensive relief measures.
Opposition leader R Ashok accuses Karnataka government of ignoring drought crisis.
157 taluks declared drought-affected, 5,862 lakes dried up.
31 farmers committed suicide in the last two months.
Government accused of delaying drought declaration to avoid providing relief.
Opposition demands immediate drought declaration, compensation, and farm loan waiver.
- Who
- R Ashok, Leader of the Opposition in Karnataka
- What
- Urging the government to declare drought and provide relief to farmers
- When
- Wednesday
- Where
- Bengaluru, Karnataka
- Why
- Due to severe drought, farmers' suicides, and migration in search of livelihoods
Opposition's Stance
Government's Stance
Drought Declaration
Opposition's Stance
The opposition demands immediate drought declaration and compensation for farmers.
Government's Stance
The government is accused of delaying drought declaration to avoid providing relief.
Farm Loan Waiver
Opposition's Stance
The opposition urges the government to waive farm loans.
Government's Stance
No official statement from the government on farm loan waiver.
Use of Cauvery Water
Opposition's Stance
The opposition alleges that Cauvery water is being allowed to flow to Tamil Nadu instead of being used in Karnataka.
Government's Stance
No official statement from the government on the use of Cauvery water.
- Rainfall Deficit
- 42% in June, 43% in Malenadu, 35% in coastal region, 33% in North Interior Karnataka, 31% in South Interior Karnataka
- Drought-Declared Taluks
- 157
- Farmers' Suicides
- 31 in the last two months, 2,800 since Congress came to power
- Dried Lakes
- 5,862
- Reservoir Water Levels
- Linganamakki, Supa, and Varahi reservoirs at 23%; Cauvery basin reservoirs at 51%; Krishna basin reservoirs at 48%
- Fodder Crisis
- Severe problems due to lack of fodder for livestock
- Government's Response
- Revenue Minister seeks reports from district commissioners; Centre asked for Rs 10,000 crore