Karnataka’s Chief Minister, Siddaramaiah, is contemplating a potential increase in pension benefits for senior citizens in the state. This move, if implemented, could see seniors receiving a higher monthly pension than the current amount. The decision comes in response to a request from Lakshmi Hebbalkar, the Minister for Women and Child Welfare.
Siddaramaiah, a prominent figure in the Congress party, made this announcement during a recent press conference in Bengaluru, where he emphasized the importance of respecting and supporting the elderly in society. This proposed change is expected to be considered in the upcoming state budget, which will be unveiled in due course.
Source: Public TV English
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, during his interaction with reporters, expressed his willingness to “seriously consider” Hebbalkar’s proposal to raise the pension for senior citizens from the current ₹1,000 to ₹2,000 per month. He acknowledged the importance of treating elders with respect and embracing their values. Siddaramaiah believes that ensuring a dignified life for the elderly is a priority and a reflection of the society’s values. The final decision on this matter is expected to be made when the state budget for the next fiscal year is presented.
Source: HT
During the press conference, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah also addressed recent communal incidents in Shivamogga, particularly a stone-pelting incident that occurred during a religious procession. He asserted the government’s commitment to taking swift and stringent action to curb communal incidents and ensure the safety and harmony of the state’s residents. The Karnataka police have already registered 24 cases related to the Shivamogga incident, leading to the arrest of 60 individuals. Siddaramaiah firmly rejected allegations from the opposition Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) that communal violence has increased under the Congress government’s leadership.
In addition to addressing pension concerns and communal incidents, the Siddaramaiah-led Congress government is currently facing pressure to release the results of a caste census survey conducted in the state. Prominent Congress leaders, including B K Hariprasad and former Union minister M Veerappa Moily, have called upon the state government to share the data from this survey with the public. The delay in releasing the caste census report has raised questions and demands for transparency in the process.
Source: BNN Breaking
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s consideration of increasing pension benefits for senior citizens reflects his commitment to addressing the needs of the elderly population in Karnataka. While addressing the press, he emphasized the importance of respect and dignity for seniors, suggesting that this move is a testament to the values of the state. Furthermore, Siddaramaiah’s strong stance on containing communal incidents and swift action against wrongdoers underscores his dedication to maintaining peace and harmony in the region.
Additionally, the government faces calls to release the caste census data, highlighting the importance of transparency in governance. As the state awaits the upcoming budget announcement, the decisions made by the Karnataka government will have a significant impact on the lives of its citizens, especially the senior population.
