Hubballi, July 8 (FN Agency) Union Food and Civil Supplies Minister Prahlad Joshi countered Karnataka Chief Minister Siddharamaiah’s accusations today, asserting that the central government stands ready to supply rice to Karnataka but faces a financial hurdle on the state’s end. Joshi clarified that despite the center’s readiness to provide any required quantity of rice at reduced rates, Siddharamaiah’s administration has purportedly failed to secure funds for the purchase.
In his statement, Joshi criticized Siddharamaiah’s claims as politically motivated, highlighting ongoing issues such as delayed payments under the Gruhalaxmi scheme and reduced subsidies for farmers. The minister underscored these challenges as indicative of financial mismanagement within the Karnataka government, contrasting it with the central government’s commitment to ensuring essential supplies reach all states. The dispute underscores growing tensions between the center and Karnataka over crucial supply issues, marking a new phase in their strained relationship amidst broader political maneuvering ahead of upcoming state elections.