Karnataka Council erupts over drought, Centre aid as ruling

Bengaluru, Sep 22 (UNI) The Karnataka Legislative Council on Tuesday witnessed a stormy debate over the state's worsening drought situation, with the ruling Congress and Opposition BJP trading charges over drought management, drinking water shortages, farmers' losses and financial assistance from the Centre. The government said it was preparing to seek Rs 18,000 crore in drought relief from the Centre, while the Opposition accused it of failing to act despite advance warnings of deficient rainfall and mounting water shortages. Deputy Chief Minister G Parameshwara said 123 taluks had already been declared drought-hit and another 53 taluks would be added to…