Centre may not fund HD Kumaraswamy's farm loan waiver scheme, says BS Yeddyurappa

Bengaluru: Taking a dig at CM H.D. Kumaraswamy for his efforts to seek central aid for waiver of farm loans, Opposition leader in the Assembly B.S. Yeddyurappa said on Monday that the Centre might not provide funds for this purpose. Talking to reporters here, Mr Yeddyurappa said that instead of turning to the Centre, Mr Kumaraswamy should have thought twice before announcing his farm loan waiver plan.

“The Maharashtra and Uttar Pradesh governments too waived farm loans. The Centre did not help these states. Similarly, Mr Kumaraswamy should have come up with a plan for farm loan waiver without deviating from fiscal discipline,” he said. According to Mr Yeddyurappa, both father and son, H.D. Deve Gowda and H.D. Kumaraswamy, should have discussed issues like fulfilling poll promises before forging an alliance with the Congress party. “Now, they try to offer one excuse after the other saying they have to have a discussion with the Congress party before fulfilling their promises,” Mr Yeddyurappa said while attacking the former Prime Minister and his son.

According to the state BJP president, small and medium farmers had not repaid their loans, anticipating a waiver from the government. The government should immediately take a decision in this regard. “I have been quietly watching the situation. We will decide the future course of action after the state budget is presented,” he added. While replying to a question, the former chief ministers said that he was not after power. “I am ready to sit in the opposition to safeguard the interests of the public,” he added.