MLA defends distribution of land under Akrama Sakrama

Addressing reporters, he said that out of 1,400 applications received in 1998-99 and 1990-91, only few have been approved. “Title deeds were not distributed after I was elected as an MLA in Sringeri. I have approved only those applications which were verified by village accountants, revenue inspectors, shirastedars and tahsildars,” he clarified.

He said that there were Congress and JD(S) party workers in the list of beneficiaries who availed land. “I did not show disparity based on caste, religion or politics. I have recommended to the government to sanction land to all deserved applicants,” he added.

He said that the recommendation made by the Committee headed by MLA will be sent to the Deputy Forest Officer and Tahsildar. A final decision has to be taken by the officials.

Officials in the Taluk Office should have closed the application ledger after the last date. Nobody can blame for that since I was not an MLA during that period, he added.

“Congress and JD(S) leaders themselves are admitting that they are not pro-poor by blaming for giving land to farmers.

The Balakrishna Committee did not blame me for the corrections in the ledger. Opposition parties have forgotten this fact,” Jeevaraj said.

He said that a comprehensive study will be conducted to produce documents regarding Akrama - Sakrama land distribution in Chikmagalur, N R Pura, Sringeri and Koppa taluks. “I have not committed any mistake and I am ready to face Judicial, Joint Legislature Committee, Lokayukta or any other committee inquiry,” he added.