Daijiworld Media Network - Hassan (MS)

Hassan, May 9: Minister H D Revanna has accused Deputy Commissioner (DC) of the district, Priyanka Mary Francis, of not taking action with regards to the drought relief work, issue of drinking water and sale of potato seeds to farmers.

Revanna was speaking in a press conference in the city on Wednesday, May 8.

He further accused DC and said, "The government has released Rs 8 crore towards drought relief and Rs 5 crore towards the emergency work related to drinking water in the district. However, the DC has kept these grants in her Personal Deposit (PD) account."

"The sowing of potato will start in another week's time. But till now, no action has been taken with regards to the sales of quality potato seeds to the farmers. If she cannot work, let her proceed on leave. If the farmers fight for the quality seeds, once the monsoon starts, the DC will be responsible for any chaos, lathi-charge or firing which might arise out of the situation. The DC has all the time for other works except drought relief work," added Revanna.

Giving clarification on the accusations made by minister Revanna in the press conference, DC Priyanka said, "Systematic actions are in place in the district already for the effective handling of drought. Precautionary measures have been already taken to prevent any shortage of drinking water."