Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar revealed plans to rename approximately 6,000 village panchayat offices in honor of Mahatma Gandhi. This decision, endorsed by the Congress party, aims to perpetuate Gandhi’s legacy in every village. The move aligns with Gandhi’s vision of essential community institutions like schools, cooperative societies, and panchayats.
Shivakumar made the announcement during a protest event in Bengaluru, emphasizing the importance of preserving Mahatma Gandhi’s name. He highlighted the Congress party’s historical commitment to empowering the underprivileged through initiatives like the employment guarantee scheme. Under this scheme, significant funds are allocated annually for developmental projects in Karnataka’s numerous panchayats.
The Deputy Chief Minister criticized recent changes to the employment guarantee scheme by the BJP-led government, expressing concerns about reduced funding allocations. He accused the ruling party of undermining Gandhi’s legacy and pledged to uphold the scheme’s original objectives. Shivakumar also challenged BJP leaders on their stance towards the scheme, emphasizing the need to protect the rights of rural workers and communities.
Referring to his own constituency’s success in utilizing scheme funds for development projects, Shivakumar defended the scheme’s integrity. He called for constructive dialogue with political opponents to address any concerns and ensure the scheme’s continuity. The Deputy Chief Minister warned of potential repercussions if the government fails to reconsider its approach to the employment guarantee scheme.
