Janaspandana: Delayed start, early finish leave citizens miffed

The ‘Janaspandana’ programme here on Friday, chaired by Energy and District in-charge Minister D K Shivakumar, was delayed by two hours but got over in a jiffy.

The programme, which was scheduled to start at 11 am began only at 1.50 pm. The minister, who addressed the gathering,  received a few petitions from the people and left, much to the disappointment of the public. A counter was opened for registering the petitions and about 180 applications were received on the day.

People were heard complaining that if they had to just register their complaints, what was the need to hold a public interaction programme with the minister.

Kalamandira, where the programme was organised, was brimming with people and a large number of people were waiting outside the building.

Taluk-level meetings
Earlier, Shivakumar said, the ‘Janaspandana’ programme will be extended to taluk and hobli levels.

The minister said, “It is mandatory for the district-level officers to stay in their respective headquarters. Those who are finding it difficult may leave the district. A committee would be constituted to review the situation.”

He warned that power connection would be disconnected at more than 30 villages of the district, which have failed to pay power bills. The fair price shops should be open during the working hours.

When Shivakumar urged the people to use water judiciously, as the water levels in the dams are low, a few from the gathering shouted “let the government first stop releasing water to Tamil Nadu.”

MLAs P M Narendrasw- amy, K C Narayanagowda, ZP president J Premakumari, CMC president Hosahalli Boregowda, Deputy Commissioner Dr Ajay Nagabushan, SP Sudhirkumar Reddy and ZP CEO B Sharat were present.

The minister distributed cheques and agricultural implements to the beneficiaries, on the occasion.