Pro-farmer government is what's needed next: HDK

Vokkaligas are saviours of others, says former chief minister

Assembly elections are still an year away, but for former chief minister and Janata Dal (Secular) state president H D Kumaraswamy the time was ripe to give a call to elect those who have concern for farmers.

Participating in the opening of Sri Bandantamma Kalamma Community Hall on Sunday at K G Koppal, a Vokkaliga bastion, Kumaraswamy — also a MP — warned the gathering against falling prey to the gimmicks of unconcerned politicians.

He urged them to vote for only those who strive for the welfare of the agrarian community.


Expressing filial affection towards the community, Kumaraswamy said: “Vokkaligas do not have selfish motives, but are saviours — who protect people, irrespective of community.”
Taking a dig at the state government, he said: “Presentation of an exclusive budget for agriculture is their only achievement, as the government has failed to take steps in checking recurring incidents of farmers taking extreme step by ending lives.”

“The progress in the agriculture sector is below 50 per cent, needless to say none of the farmers have been benefitted by the very department. Instead, the government is involved in grading officers in departments, according to their progress,” he said.

He advised Bandantamma Kalamma Trust to spend a part of the revenue generated from the community hall for the welfare of meritorious students from economically weaker sections.

Opposition leader in legislative Assembly Siddaramaiah said, “It’s only good deeds that remain eternal even after one’s death. It will remain for long in the annals of history.” He said his bond with K G Koppal was unforgettable. It was also the only reason that forced him to drive straight to the city from Bangalore, leaving behind other engagements.

Five couples entered wedlock in the mass marriage organised as part of the occasion. Adhichunchanagiri mutt seer Sri Balagangadharanatha, mayor Pushpalata Chikkanna, president of the trust B Boraiah and others were present.

‘Polls better’
Making a mockery of the internal bickerings in the BJP, H D Kumaraswamy said it would be better to seek fresh mandate.

Saying that the Assembly elections are one-and-a-half-year’s away, Kumaraswamy told media that there are still tremors in the saffron party. “Chief minister D V Sadananda Gowda says he will present the forthcoming budget, while his predecessor B S Yeddyurappa is involved in all possible efforts to oust the former. The government headed by Gowda also has no progress to claim. The government is wasting time”, chided Kumaraswamy.

“Nothing is well in Cong too, as the recent meet organised by the party was focussed on bringing all leaders together, rather than concentrating on other issues,” he said.