Daijiworld Media Network-Bengaluru (RJP)
Bengaluru, Aug 14: Chief Minister Siddaramaiah was seen visibly upset over the delay in getting appointment with Prime Minister Narendra Modi to discuss various issues relating to the state.
The issues include implementation of the Kalasa-Banduri project, presently prevailing drought condition and farmer suicides in the state among others. The communication with the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) in this regard has received no response at all, it is learnt.
Siddaramaiah brought the issue to the notice of scribes on Thursday after holding a meeting with the elected representatives and various organisations from Dharwad and Belagavi. The delegation was demanding the implementation of the Kalasa Banduri irrigation project. "In a federal system, the Centre needs to respond positively towards the problems faced by the states." said Siddaramaiah showing his displeasure over the matter of delay in getting appointment to hold discussion with the PM.
Siddaramaiah revealed that his office had written to the PMO 15 days ago seeking the appointment with the prime minister. But the state is yet to receive a reply for the request. “I am not politicising this issue. What I want is, the PMO should finalise the meeting as soon as possible." Siddaramaiah also said.
Water Resources Minister M B Patil who was in New Delhi recently had requested that the meeting should be held before the conclusion of the current parliament session.
Siddaramaiah said that an all-party meeting will be convened on Sunday, August 23 to discuss the implementation of the Kalasa-Banduri project.