Karnataka: House blames deputy commissioners for under-utilisation of funds

Bengaluru: Legislative Council members cutting across party lines criticised deputy commissioners (DCs) for not implementing developmental works sanctioned under the MLA/MLC local area development fund in their respective districts.

The members urged the state government to fix responsibility on DCs and make sure they implement the schemes. Congress member Motamma initiated the debate under Rule 330 and criticised DCs for not implementing the works. Supporting her view, Opposition and ruling party members explained their plight because of the non-implementation of the schemes and the non-co-operation of DCs.

Deputy opposition leader K.B. Shanappa said, “I had given approval for the construction of a school building in Kolar district at a cost of Rs 90 lakh but even after a lapse of eight years, the Kolar DC has not approved the project nor has he returned the fund.”

IT and BT minister S.R. Patil, who holds the planning portfolio, said instructions will be issued to all DCs to implement the schemes under local area development fund.