Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah criticized the Union Government on Wednesday for denying permission to the Karnataka government to extend the guaranteed employment days from 100 to 150 under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) in drought-affected taluks in the state. Speaking in Haveri, Siddaramaiah highlighted that Karnataka has not received any compensation from the Centre, following the norms of the National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF), despite 13 states, including Karnataka, grappling with drought conditions.
Siddaramaiah refuted suggestions from BJP leaders advising his government to use state funds for farmers instead of waiting for assistance from the Centre. He emphasized the right to seek funds, considering it as tax revenue collected from the state. The CM reiterated the government’s commitment to alleviating drought-related challenges, instructing deputy commissioners to ensure an adequate water supply for people and sufficient fodder for cattle.
Funds have been released to the districts, and district ministers have been tasked with overseeing the proper implementation of drought relief measures, Siddaramaiah added. Regarding compensation for crop losses, he mentioned that the survey is underway, but the Centre is yet to release funds under the NDRF. However, he assured that works undertaken as part of drought relief would not be impeded.
On the upcoming Belagavi winter session, Siddaramaiah expressed readiness to address queries from the Opposition, with a focus on significant issues affecting North Karnataka. Regarding appointments to boards and corporations, he indicated that a list has been finalized and submitted to AICC state in-charge Randeep Singh Surjewala. Responding to criticism about withdrawing the CBI inquiry against DyCM DK Shivakumar, Siddaramaiah remarked that, unlike former CMs BS Yediyurappa and HD Kumaraswamy, he understands the law and procedure and would not approve a CBI probe without proper cause.
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