The Karnataka State Commission for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes has issued a stern warning against individuals involved in obtaining fake caste certificates and engaging in land grabbing in Belagavi district. Chairperson Murthy L, speaking to the media at Suvarna Vidhana Soudha on Monday, revealed that the commission has received numerous complaints on these issues and will take strict action against those found guilty.
Pending Cases and Investigations
Murthy stated that approximately 4,500 applications are currently pending before the commission, with nearly 3,850 cases under active investigation. He expressed concern that land distributed by the government to beneficiaries from Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes often becomes entangled in litigation, forcing poor recipients to make repeated visits to courts.
Misuse of Government Funds
The chairperson alleged that funds released under the Special Component Plan (SCP) and Tribal Sub-Plan (TSP) schemes are not being utilized properly. He pointed out that local bodies have failed to provide even basic facilities to civic workers and noted a shortage of hostels for Scheduled Caste students.
Murthy also referred to complaints about delays in registering atrocity cases and the alleged indifference of officials towards SC/ST grievances. He emphasized that the commission would take these issues seriously and initiate strict action against erring officials.
Rise in Fake Caste Certificates
Recalling that cases of individuals obtaining fake caste certificates are on the rise in Belagavi district, Murthy stressed that details of works undertaken under SCP-TSP funds must be displayed on notice boards. Contracts should be awarded strictly as per government norms, he added.
The chairperson said that the chief minister would be informed about the need for basic amenities for the Hakki-Pikki community and that a special package would be sought for Dalit families affected by floods.
After completing a statewide tour over the next 15 days, the commission will submit a comprehensive report to the government, Murthy concluded.
