Govt Delivered Jobs to Oxygen Tragedy Victims’ Families as Promised: Deputy CM DK Shivakumar
Chamarajanagar: Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar on Tuesday said the state government has fulfilled its promise by providing government jobs to family members of victims who died in the Chamarajanagar oxygen tragedy.
Speaking at a programme in Gundlupet taluk, where development works including a ₹475 crore project to fill water to 110 lakes were launched, Shivakumar said the government’s commitment has brought relief and hope to affected families. “Seeing smiles on the faces of women and children of the victims makes our efforts meaningful,” he said.
Recalling the incident during the previous BJP regime, Shivakumar said the Congress leadership had visited the district, met victims’ families, and assured justice. “We have stood by our word, which reflects our pro-people governance,” he added, while thanking district ministers and officials for their support.
₹1,000 Crore Boost for Gundlupet, Focus on Welfare Schemes
Highlighting development initiatives, Shivakumar said over ₹1,000 crore has been allocated for Gundlupet constituency, along with multiple welfare measures under the Congress government’s five guarantee schemes. These include free bus travel for women, ₹2,000 monthly assistance for eligible women, 10 kg free rice for poor families, free electricity up to 200 units, and unemployment allowance for youth.
He said the government does not discriminate on the basis of caste, religion, or party affiliation while implementing schemes. “Every eligible beneficiary is covered,” he stated.
₹1 Lakh Crore Annually Reaching People
The Deputy CM said the state is spending nearly ₹1 lakh crore annually on welfare programmes, including ₹52,000 crore on guarantee schemes and ₹20,000 crore on free electricity for farmers’ pump sets, along with funds under SC/ST and pension schemes.
He also noted that similar welfare models are being replicated in other states, reflecting the impact of Karnataka’s policies.
Mekedatu DPR to Be Submitted in 10 Days
On the Mekedatu project, Shivakumar said the Detailed Project Report (DPR) will be submitted to the Centre within the next 10 days. He stated that the Supreme Court has directed that the final decision rests with the Central Government, and approval is awaited for implementation.
Read Here: Support Mekedatu Project if Committed: Deputy CM DK Shivakumar Challenges Opposition
He reiterated that necessary groundwork, including office setup and land identification, has already been completed.
Taking a swipe at opposition leaders, Shivakumar said criticism is easy but development work speaks for itself. “Criticism fades, but work remains,” he said, adding that the government is committed to building a hunger-free, poverty-free, and equitable state.
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