Fri Jan 10 15:43:05 UTC 2025: ## Union Minister Slams Karnataka Govt Over Paddy Procurement Delays

**Mysuru, January 10, 2025** – Union Minister for Heavy Industries and Steel, H.D. Kumaraswamy, sharply criticized the Karnataka state government for its delay in opening paddy procurement centers, alleging that falling paddy prices are hurting farmers. He accused the government of prioritizing trivial matters over farmers’ needs, questioning whether they were more focused on acquiring gunny bags than setting up procurement centers.

Speaking to reporters in Maddur, Kumaraswamy stated that paddy prices have plummeted by ₹1,700-₹1,800 per quintal. He revealed that he had requested the opening of procurement centers last week, with a deadline of January 15th promised by officials. He sarcastically suggested the government’s delay was due to a lack of gunny bags to store the paddy.

The Minister directly challenged Karnataka’s Agriculture Minister, N. Cheluvarayaswamy, to prioritize the opening of procurement centers over “petty politics.” He also dismissed recent allegations of “dinner politics” within the Congress party as an internal matter, questioning the need for such meetings when a cabinet already exists.

Kumaraswamy further refuted claims made by BJP leader K.C. Narayana Gowda regarding the JD(S)’s alliance policy in Mandya, stating that such issues would be addressed internally. He also clarified misunderstandings surrounding his transportation, denying any objections to using the car previously assigned to former MP Sumalatha Ambareesh, emphasizing it’s government property.

Earlier in the day, Kumaraswamy participated in a procession to Chakanakere village, where he offered prayers at a lake. The event was attended by former MP D.C. Thammanna and other party leaders.

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