Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar seeks Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s appointment to discuss sugarcane growers’ issues and drought

Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar on Sunday (October 18) said that he had sought an appointment with Prime Minister Narendra Modi to discuss the problems faced by sugarcane growers and the drought situation in Karnataka. He said he would urge Opposition leaders to join an all-party delegation to meet the Prime Minister to seek solutions to the issues.

Speaking to reporters at Mysuru airport, Mr. Shivakumar said Opposition leaders had earlier expressed their willingness to join the delegation and he hoped they would stand by their words.

Responding to a question on the ongoing sugarcane growers’ agitation, he appealed to the farmers to call off their protest and resolve the issues through discussions.

“I have spoken to the farmers and once again appeal to them through the media to withdraw their protest. Everyone should sit together and find a solution. There is no point in politicising the issue or making allegations against anyone. Others may indulge in such politics, but I will not,” he said.

“Our objective is to ensure the welfare of farmers and the people. The livelihood of farmers is important to us,” he added.

Asked about the demand that the State government should also contribute financially towards the support price for sugarcane, Mr. Shivakumar said the matter could be discussed. “There are different categories of farmers in the State, and we have to take everyone’s interests into consideration,” he said.