India

BJP Urges Karnataka Govt to Act Against Fake Seeds, Fertilisers; Announces Statewide Protest

Press Trust of India

Bengaluru, Jul 27 (PTI) Karnataka BJP President B Y Vijayendra on Sunday demanded that the Congress-led state government file criminal cases and take strict action against companies allegedly supplying fake seeds and fertilisers to farmers.

Accusing the government of “failing farmers,” Vijayendra said a police vigilance team should be formed to crack down on networks cheating cultivators.

“Criminal Action Against Fraudulent Companies”
In a post on ‘X’, he said, “Companies supplying fertilizers and seeds are sabotaging agricultural activities by providing fake seeds to the enthusiastic farming community expecting a good harvest in the backdrop of a promising monsoon. I urge the government to file criminal cases against such companies and take strict action.”

He added that the government must prioritise ensuring quality seeds and fertilisers are supplied on time.

Accusation of Artificial Urea Shortage
Vijayendra also alleged that the state government’s “mismanagement” had created an artificial shortage of urea despite the Centre providing sufficient stocks.

“Over 8,70,000 metric tonnes of urea have been supplied to Karnataka by the central government, but only 5,30,000 metric tonnes are available in the market. Where is the rest?” he asked, alleging that brokers and traders are hoarding stocks.

BJP Farmers’ Wing Protest
The BJP’s farmers’ wing will hold a statewide protest on Monday over the issue. “This is not for political reasons but to stand with farmers. Panic has been created among them due to urea shortages,” Vijayendra told reporters.

Opposition Leader’s Attack
Leader of Opposition R Ashoka echoed the sentiment, accusing the Congress government of neglecting farmers. “Instead of ensuring fertiliser storage and timely distribution, the government is busy with internal power struggles. The curse of farmers will affect this Congress government,” Ashoka posted on ‘X’.