Sunil Lohan
*Measures taken to ensure people do not face difficulties during the SIR process: Dr.G.Parameshwara*
Deputy Chief Minister Dr.G.Parameshwara said that the Karnataka Government has begun the free door-to-door distribution of caste certificates and Permanent Resident Certificates (PRCs) to help people easily obtain the documents required for the Union Government’s Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the electoral rolls.
Speaking to the media after inaugurating the programme for the free door-to-door distribution of caste certificates and Permanent Resident Certificates at the Conference Hall of Vidhana Soudha,he said that these certificates would not only facilitate access to various government services but also help citizens establish their status as permanent residents of Karnataka.
He added that the government has prescribed specific eligibility criteria for obtaining a Permanent Resident Certificate.
Elaborating on the criteria,Dr.Parameshwara said that applicants must either have been born in Karnataka or satisfy the prescribed eligibility conditions.
They should have resided in the state for at least 10 years, completed Second PUC or an equivalent qualification in Karnataka,and studied in a recognised educational institution in the state.
Eligibility also extends to those who have served for at least seven years in government or local bodies.
Applicants may also qualify if their father, mother, husband, or wife has resided in Karnataka for at least 10 years.
In addition,applicants should own or lawfully occupy immovable property in Karnataka,have their names included in the electoral rolls,and,in the case of those married to a resident of Karnataka,should be residing in the state.These form the basis for issuing the Permanent Resident Certificate, he explained.
Responding to a question from the media on the prevailing drought situation in Karnataka,the Deputy Chief Minister said that the government is treating the issue with the utmost seriousness.
He noted that both he and the Chief Minister have written to the Union Government seeking assistance,but no response has been received so far.
He urged the Union Government to respond,stating that Karnataka is facing the most severe drought in the last 150 years.
He said that the crisis is not confined to two or three districts but affects the entire state,and that the representation to the Centre was made keeping in view the gravity of the situation.
Replying to a question regarding the Congress party’s protest demanding the resignation of the Union Education Minister over the alleged irregularities in the NEET examination,and the issue being raised in Parliament, Dr.Parameshwara said that the matter concerns the future of lakhs of students.
He pointed out that some students who had cleared the examination in their first attempt failed when they appeared again,and that the media has also reported such cases.
He said that such a situation is unacceptable and emphasised that it is the responsibility of the Union Government to conduct examinations in a strict, transparent, and fair manner,ensuring that no irregularities occur.
