Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar has announced the installation of CCTV cameras in front of donation boxes at temples managed by the Muzrai Department. This decision comes in response to alleged irregularities at the Ram Mandir, aiming to ensure transparency and prevent misuse of devotees’ donations. The move, disclosed during a press conference in Belagavi, is expected to spark political discussions in the state.
Shivakumar expressed concerns over reported irregularities at the Ram Mandir, emphasizing the need to safeguard devotees’ sentiments. He highlighted that the government’s decision to mandate CCTV surveillance at hundis in all Muzrai Department temples aims to address misuse issues related to donation funds. The surveillance system will extend to areas where donations are received, handled, and tallied for enhanced accountability.
The Chief Minister elaborated that the CCTV footage from donation boxes, cash handling points, and counting centers will be monitored by the offices of the Superintendent of Police and the Deputy Commissioner. This measure is intended to ensure complete transparency and responsibility in donation management processes. Additionally, Shivakumar reassured the continuation of the state’s welfare guarantee schemes despite concerns raised in the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) report regarding potential misuse of benefits.
Shivakumar emphasized the government’s commitment to conducting a thorough verification of beneficiaries under schemes like Gruha Lakshmi and Gruha Jyothi to prevent irregularities. He clarified that the verification process aims to eliminate fraudulent recipients while safeguarding genuine beneficiaries’ access to welfare benefits. The Chief Minister affirmed that all eligible beneficiaries will continue to receive scheme benefits without interruption, emphasizing the government’s dedication to upholding welfare programs initiated during the previous administration.
Regarding electoral processes, Shivakumar highlighted the government’s efforts to protect citizens’ voting rights through the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. He mentioned the issuance of residence certificates to eligible voters with a 10-year residency requirement and the facilitation of caste certificate downloads for 4.50 crore citizens. The government plans to establish assistance centers at polling booths to aid individuals in completing necessary formalities, underscoring the importance of safeguarding every citizen’s voting rights.
