Karnataka faces drought crisis and political row over Vande Mataram

Karnataka is facing dual challenges of environmental crisis and political tension. A severe drought has been declared in 101 taluks across 24 districts, leading to significant crop damage and falling groundwater levels. Chief Minister DK Shivakumar warned of potential shortages in drinking water and electricity. In response, the State Level Bankers’ Committee has approved a relief package for farmers, including a 12-month moratorium on loan repayments and extended repayment periods of up to 60 months in severely affected areas.

Simultaneously, political friction has escalated over a controversy regarding the rendition of the national song, Vande Mataram. The state government issued an order restricting official functions to the first two stanzas, contradicting central government guidelines that suggest all six stanzas be played. This led to a BJP MLA walking out of a government event in Shivamogga. Home Minister Priyank Kharge has challenged BJP leaders to recite the full song without a teleprompter, even offering to resign if they succeed, while the Chief Minister accused the opposition of politicizing routine police warnings and the drought crisis.