CM tells DCs to clear files on Forest Dwellers Act on time

Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Tuesday threatened to take action against deputy commissioners if they failed to effectively implement the Scheduled Caste and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Rights) Act.

Chairing a reviewing meeting for the second day at Vidhana Soudha, he said the government will not hesitate to take action against deputy commissioners who refuse to dispose of applications citing technical reasons. “Don’t be too rigid and hold up applications.

The government will have no option but to act tough against you,” he warned.

Almost all the ministers, top officials of the government, divisional commissioners and deputy commissioners attended the meeting. “Applications under the Act (popularly called Forest Dwellers Act) should be disposed of in a time-bound manner. The Act is meant for the poor. Do not be heartless. In case of any doubt, seek clarification from the government and take action,” the Chief Minister reportedly said.

The Chief Minister lost his cool when he was informed that the Social Welfare department has so far not been able to identify land for the construction of students’ hostels in several districts. “Deputy commissioners should find land for the Social Welfare department hostels on priority. Strict action will be taken if land is not handed over within three months,” he said, adding that he will hold the next review meeting in November this year, according to sources in the secretariat. The media was not allowed to attend the meeting.

Suspended
Siddaramaiah ordered immediate suspension of Deputy Director of Social Welfare Department, Kalaburagi district, Vijayalakshmi who was facing charges of dereliction of duty. Social Welfare Minister H Anjaneya tried to defend the officer, but the chief minister snubbed him and ordered her suspension. The chief minister gave this order after he was informed that no action has been taken against the officer though an FIR has been filed against her.