Karnataka’s Food and Civil Supplies Minister, K.H. Muniyappa, discussed the ongoing LPG scarcity in the state, emphasizing the government’s efforts to tackle the issue and ensure supply to affected sectors. A high-level meeting is set for Friday, where officials will present detailed information for review at 10.30 a.m. Muniyappa highlighted the importance of uninterrupted LPG supply for auto drivers’ livelihoods and mentioned seeking priority gas allocation from the Central government.
In response to reports of LPG being sold at inflated prices on the black market, the Minister assured strict action against such activities. He mentioned plans to collaborate with the State Home Minister and government officials to enhance enforcement and curb gas black marketing. Muniyappa expressed concerns over the adverse impact of the LPG shortage on numerous small businesses in Karnataka and criticized the alleged neglect by the Central government, contrasting the situation with neighboring states.
Addressing the broader implications, Muniyappa stressed the significance of gas supply for urban dwellers reliant on hotels and eateries for sustenance. He underscored the urgency of the issue, especially for their survival, and urged for prioritizing the matter. The Minister also touched upon financial commitments made in Parliament, including allocations for various projects, highlighting the delay in state fund disbursement.
Regarding the deletion of Below Poverty Line (BPL) ration cards, Muniyappa clarified that genuine beneficiaries were not removed and encouraged those wrongly excluded to rectify the situation through the Tahsildar. He mentioned the ongoing revision process to eliminate ineligible beneficiaries and rectify discrepancies in BPL card issuance. The Minister acknowledged reports of irregularities in BPL cards and assured a systematic review to ensure deserving recipients receive the benefits.
