BS Yeddyurappa slams Karnataka CM Kumaraswamy for celebrating New Year in Singapore amidst farmers' crisis

Karnataka BJP president BS Yeddyurappa on Monday took a dig at Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy for flying to Singapore for New Year celebrations at a time when the state is reeling under drought and water crisis.

"156 talukas in the state are suffering from drought and water crisis. Farmers are committing suicide, at this time. Karnataka Chief Minister has gone to Singapore to celebrate new year, his cabinet members have also gone to different places to celebrate," Yeddyurappa said while speaking to media here.

Yeddyurappa's remarks came days after Karnataka government declared 156 out of the 176 talukas of the state drought-hit due to the failed northeast monsoon

READ | SHOCKING: "It's Not A Big Issue, It's Human Tendency", Says Karnataka CM Kumaraswamy In Latest Justification After 'shootout' Order

The BJP leader also called Kumaraswamy an "irresponsible" Chief Minister who does not care about the welfare of the people. Yeddyurappa further demanded the state government to reveal the data of the loan waiver given to farmers in the state.

"From last few months, he (Kumaraswamy) is talking about farmers' loan waiver issue. Do I want to know till today how much loan has been waived? I don't know why the Chief Minister is not giving proper statistics," he questioned.

Kumaraswamy, who flew to Singapore on Saturday night along with his family, is expected to return to Bengaluru on January 1.

READ: Kumaraswamy 'shootout' Order Backlash: Trouble Mounts For Karnataka CM As Activist Files Case Over 'kill Them Mercilessly' Phone Call

The Karnataka CM has been courting controversy this month. On December 25, he was caught on camera talking to someone (seemingly a police officer) issuing orders to kill the people, who assassinated JD(S) leader Prakash, in a 'shootout'. He was heard saying:

 "He was a good man. I'm hurt because he has been murdered. There were three murders that took place in the past. I'm disappointed. Who are your inspectors? Where was the circle inspector? He was murdered in the middle of a road. I don't know how your handling it. It is your duty. I'm very disappointed. He was a very good man. If needed shoot him. Don't spare such criminals. I don't care about such people. Kill them (assailants) mercilessly in a shootout, no problem".