Belagavi, July 1: Karnataka’s Home Minister G. Parameshwara has emphasized the importance of conducting the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the voter list with utmost care. He stressed that it is essential to ensure that no eligible voter is deprived of their right to vote, urging all possible efforts to be made in this regard.
While addressing party leaders and workers at the Belagavi District Congress office, Parameshwara called on Congress activists to unite and work diligently for the welfare of the poor, Dalits, backward classes, and minorities. He noted that the SIR process is currently a topic of discussion across the country and highlighted the need for Karnataka to learn from the issues faced in other states during elections to safeguard every voter’s rights.
He stated that the SIR process should be effectively implemented in every assembly constituency. Booth Level Officers (BLOs) and other relevant officials must coordinate to ensure that no eligible voter’s name is unjustly removed from the voter list. Additionally, he mentioned that Deputy Commissioners and Tehsildars have been granted the authority to issue residence certificates, simplifying the process and reducing inconvenience for the public.
Discussing the relationship between the central and state governments, Parameshwara pointed out that delays in funds from the center and insufficient financial assistance for various welfare schemes have led to several challenges. He remarked, “Delays in central grants have hindered the implementation of development plans and posed challenges in delivering government benefits to the poor. Adequate funding for initiatives like the Jal Jeevan Mission and MGNREGA has also been lacking. Our experiences show that the lack of cooperation from the central government affects development work.”
He reiterated that the Congress party has always prioritized the welfare of the poor in its governance agenda. Parameshwara emphasized that to continue their pro-people initiatives beyond 2028, the party will need the public’s support and blessings once again.
He stated, “This is why the SIR process must be implemented with seriousness. It is crucial to ensure that no eligible voter is deprived of their voting rights. Any irregularities found will be monitored, and action will be taken according to the rules.”
On organizational matters, Parameshwara noted that changes in party officials and responsibilities are natural whenever a new president takes charge of the Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC). He mentioned that dedicated and capable workers at the district level will be identified and assigned responsibilities based on their abilities.
He urged ministers, legislators, and district Congress presidents to collaborate in preparing a list of qualified individuals for various organizational positions, including the General Secretary. This list will be reviewed and sent to the KPCC president for final approval.
Parameshwara expressed that the Congress office is like a temple for party workers, and the office should be maintained and developed without any negligence. Reflecting on his tenure as KPCC president, he noted that around 13 Congress offices were established at the district and taluk levels during his term. He also mentioned the construction of the ‘Bharat Jodo Bhavan’ at a cost of approximately 20 crore rupees, although he left the KPCC presidency before its inauguration.
He praised former minister Lakshmi Hebbalkar and Minister Satish Jarkiholi for their efforts in constructing the Belagavi District Congress office. Parameshwara revealed that the cabinet had discussed this issue in detail, and at that time, former minister D.K. Shivakumar had strongly advocated for purchasing suitable land for the office. Subsequently, 25 lakh rupees were approved for the land purchase, and the foundation stone for the building was laid.
He instructed ministers to visit local Congress offices whenever they tour districts or taluks to stay connected with grassroots workers. While some ministers adhered to this process, others did not.
Reflecting on his political journey, Parameshwara shared that he began working for the Congress at a young age. Before being appointed as Vice President by former Chief Ministers Dharam Singh and S.M. Krishna, he served as the party’s General Secretary for seven years. Later, Congress leader Sonia Gandhi included him in the Congress Working Committee, and he also chaired the party’s publicity committee.
He concluded, “Every party worker who serves with integrity will be given opportunities. Let us all work together to strengthen the Congress and strive for the welfare of the poor, Dalits, backward classes, and minorities.”
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