Bengaluru, July 19: Karnataka’s Deputy Chief Minister G. Parameshwara defended the government’s activities related to the proposed cabinet expansion on Saturday. He emphasized that the government is capable of addressing both political and administrative processes, as well as the challenges posed by the current drought situation.
Speaking to reporters in Bengaluru, Parameshwara noted the contradictory stance taken by the media and the opposition regarding the cabinet expansion.
He stated, “On one hand, the media claims the government is functioning without a full cabinet, and on the other, when the expansion is underway, they accuse the ruling Congress of engaging in political activities while the state is facing drought.”
Reiterating the Congress government’s commitment to its responsibilities, the Deputy Chief Minister assured that the administration is closely monitoring drought-like conditions across Karnataka.
He remarked, “The people have entrusted us with responsibilities, and we will do what is necessary. The Chief Minister and I have already held meetings regarding the situation in eight districts of the Belagavi Division and eight districts of the Kalaburagi Division. I have personally reviewed the situation in my home district of Tumakuru and in Chitradurga.”
Parameshwara announced that the state government will conduct a video conference with all Deputy Commissioners on Sunday to assess the situation and issue necessary directives.
He added, “The government is concerned about what needs to be done. We are convening a meeting with all Deputy Commissioners for review and will provide them with appropriate instructions.”
Highlighting the measures taken to address water scarcity, he mentioned that the government has allocated ₹5 crore for each district, totaling approximately ₹324 crore, specifically for drinking water needs.
He stated, “Deputy Commissioners have ₹600 crore to ₹700 crore available in their PD accounts, and they have been instructed to utilize the funds based on local needs.”
He also noted that the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Deputy Commissioner will closely monitor the situation.
Parameshwara revealed that Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar and he have written to the central government, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and the Union Agriculture Minister, requesting leniency in the rules for declaring drought and seeking central assistance.
He concluded, “The opposition should ensure that funds are released from the center. We are not sitting idle; we are working responsibly.”
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