In a significant announcement, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah revealed that the state government is actively considering a proposal to allot land to all backward castes. The plan is set to be presented before the state cabinet for approval in the near future.
Land Allotment and Community Benefits
The Chief Minister made this declaration on Sunday while addressing the Devanga community. He stated that once the cabinet approves the proposal, their organization would be among the beneficiaries, receiving a plot of land measuring between 2 and 2.5 acres.
Responding to a longstanding demand from the weaver community, Siddaramaiah also promised the establishment of a Weavers' Development Corporation. He confirmed that this new corporation would include representation from the Devanga community, which has a significant number of weavers.
A Call for Unity and Constitutional Vision
Speaking at the centenary celebrations of the Devanga Sabha, the Chief Minister urged members to foster unity. He advised the community leaders and weavers to move beyond sub-caste divisions and organize themselves as a single, powerful force to better advocate for their rights and welfare.
He emphasized the constitutional vision of a society free from caste discrimination. Quoting Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, Siddaramaiah noted that a truly equal society can only be built by ensuring social, economic, educational, and political freedom for every citizen.
Recap of Existing Weaver Welfare Schemes
The Chief Minister took the opportunity to list several welfare measures already implemented for the benefit of weavers in the state. He recalled that during his tenure as the finance minister, the electricity tariff for connections up to 10 HP was slashed from Rs 4.2 per unit to just Rs 1.2 per unit. This move benefited nearly 80% of the weaver community.
He detailed further subsidies and support, including:
- Extension of the electricity subsidy to 20 HP connections.
- Increase in rebates from 10% to 20%.
- Provision of zero-interest loans up to Rs 5 lakh.
- Fixation of the Weavers' Sammana Yojana at Rs 5,000.
- Celebration of the birth centenary of Devadasi Mayya by his government.
Concluding his address, Siddaramaiah offered a piece of political advice to the community: "You should stand with those who stand with you."
Adding weight to the announcements, Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar assured the gathering that the Bangalore Development Authority (BDA) would take necessary steps to identify suitable land for their association.
