Protests erupt in Karnataka over milk and curd price hikes
The BJP and Gandhadagudi Foundation have staged demonstrations against rising costs of essential commodities and KSRTC bus fares.
Protesters in Karnataka staged demonstrations on Monday against the increased prices of milk and curd, as well as rising KSRTC bus fares. According to The Hindu, the Gandhadagudi Foundation held a peaceful protest in front of the Old Deputy Commissioner’s Office in Mysuru, where members served black tea to passers-by.
The foundation's president, Aryan Gandhadagudi, questioned why milk prices rose by ₹12 per litre despite an earlier announcement of an ₹8 increase. He noted that curd prices rose by ₹14 per litre and urged the government to clarify how much of the additional cost reaches consumers versus farmers.
In Bengaluru, the BJP women's wing protested at Freedom Park. ThePrint reported that Union Minister Shobha Karandlaje was among several leaders detained by police during the demonstration. Karandlaje alleged that the administration has deteriorated and claimed that ₹5,000 crore under the Gruha Lakshmi scheme has gone missing.
Karandlaje also stated that the government's drought relief of ₹2,500 per acre is inadequate compared to the previous administration's assistance. She further alleged that a lack of funds for diesel and repairs has affected KSRTC bus operations.
BJP State President B.Y. Vijayendra, speaking in Davanagere, said the party would launch statewide protests. According to The Hawk, Vijayendra accused the Congress government of raising costs for petrol, liquor, and stamp duty since taking office.
Vijayendra also claimed that approximately Rs 1,700 crore in subsidies for milk producers remains unpaid. He stated that the government should have used subsidies to cover costs rather than passing the burden to consumers.