Karnataka's decision to increase milk prices by Rs 8 has ignited a political row, with the state government defending the move as necessary to support farmers and the BJP accusing it of burdening citizens. Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar justified the hike, telling NDTV that milk prices in Karnataka were lower than in several neighboring states, leading to diversion of supply to other regions. He emphasized that the increase was aimed at helping farmers, a stance echoed in statements reported by The Hindu.