BJP urges Karnataka Chief Minister to declare drought in affected taluks and take relief measures on war footing

R. Ashok, Leader of the Opposition in the Assembly, has written to D.K. Shivakumar, Chief Minister of Karnataka, expressing concern over the intensifying drought situation affecting approximately 150 taluks. Ashok urged the government to declare affected areas as "drought-hit," convene district-level meetings, and implement a state-wide emergency plan for drought relief measures including alternative crops and water supply. He also criticized the lack of leadership in the Agriculture Department and called for immediate action to address the crisis impacting farmers and agricultural laborers.