In a recent press conference in Hubballi, Raita Sena president Viresh Sobaradmath Swami raised serious concerns about the alleged favoritism shown towards Goa by the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO). The controversy stemmed from reports of a letter from the PMO directing the Karnataka government to grant environmental clearance for a power project in Goa, while neglecting a similar directive for the Kalasa Banduri Nala Project in Karnataka.
Sobaradmath Swami, a prominent voice in the agricultural community, questioned the fairness of the Union government’s actions, highlighting the importance of treating all states equally in a federal system. He emphasized that the PMO’s purported bias towards Goa over Karnataka was a violation of federal principles, sparking calls for accountability from Union Minister Pralhad Joshi.
Despite Joshi’s long tenure as a Member of Parliament and a union minister, Sobaradmath Swami criticized his failure to secure clearances for the Kalasa Banduri Nala Project, urging him to step down from his position if unable to fulfill his duties effectively. The Raita Sena president’s impassioned plea for Joshi’s resignation underscored the frustration felt by farmers and residents in the region, who have faced ongoing challenges in advancing the critical water project.
### Challenging Inequalities and Seeking Justice
Sobaradmath Swami’s remarks shed light on the struggles faced by farmers in Dharwad, Gadag, and Bagalkot districts, who have resorted to legal action to push forward the Kalasa Banduri Nala Project. The delays in obtaining necessary approvals, despite the rulings of the Mahadahi Water Dispute Tribunal, reflect a broader issue of governmental inefficiency and neglect.
The Raita Sena’s plan to petition the President of India for intervention underscores the gravity of the situation and the desperate measures being considered to break the bureaucratic gridlock. By taking their grievances to the highest levels of authority, the farmers hope to draw attention to the longstanding obstacles hindering the project’s progress and demand swift action to address the disparities in treatment between states.
### A Call for Accountability and Fairness
As the debate over the PMO’s alleged bias continues to escalate, the demand for transparency and equity in decision-making processes has gained momentum. Sobaradmath Swami’s outspoken criticism of the Union government’s handling of interstate issues resonates with many who feel marginalized or overlooked in the political landscape.
The looming specter of a potential cabinet reshuffle, as suggested by the Raita Sena president, underscores the high stakes involved in addressing systemic inequalities and ensuring that elected officials uphold their responsibilities to the public. The unfolding narrative of grassroots activism and advocacy for equitable treatment serves as a poignant reminder of the power of collective action and civic engagement in shaping policy outcomes.
In conclusion, the impassioned plea for justice and fairness in the distribution of resources and opportunities highlights the enduring struggles faced by marginalized communities in navigating complex bureaucratic processes and advocating for their rights. The ongoing saga of the Kalasa Banduri Nala Project underscores the need for greater accountability and transparency in governance, as well as a renewed commitment to upholding the principles of federalism and equality across all regions.
