Karnataka approves implementation of five guarantees to all residents of state
Bengaluru: Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah announced during a press conference held after the cabinet meeting at the Vidhan Souda conference hall that the state government has decided to implement five guarantee schemes in the current financial year. Emphasizing their commitment to inclusivity, the Chief Minister stated that these schemes would be available to all residents of Karnataka, regardless of their caste, religion, or language.
One of the key initiatives highlighted by CM Siddaramaiah is the provision of up to 200 units of free electricity, known as "griha jyoti," to every household. This measure aims to alleviate the burden of electricity expenses for families across the state.
The Chief Minister expressed the government's determination to ensure that these guarantee schemes are effectively implemented, ensuring the welfare and progress of the people. He further emphasized the state's commitment to prioritizing the needs and well-being of its citizens.
The implementation details and timeline for the five guarantee schemes are expected to be outlined in subsequent announcements.
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Karnataka HC sets aside NGT order against MEG over Halasuru Lake pollution
Bengaluru: The Karnataka High Court has quashed a May 20, 2022, National Green Tribunal (NGT) order that held the Madras Engineering Group (MEG) and Centre, Bengaluru, responsible for pollution in Halasuru Lake.
A division bench comprising Chief Justice NV Anjaria and Justice KV Aravind ruled that the NGT's order, which imposed an environmental compensation of ₹2.94 crore on MEG, was issued without granting them an opportunity to be heard, violating principles of natural justice.
The court has remanded the case back to the NGT, Southern Zone, Chennai, for reconsideration. The NGT has been directed to decide afresh on the imposition of environmental compensation after providing a fair hearing to MEG.
However, the High Court ordered MEG to deposit ₹1 crore with the Karnataka State Pollution Control Board (KSPCB) as per the August 2024 NGT directive. This deposit will remain subject to the outcome of the fresh proceedings.
The NGT initiated the case in March 2016 following a news report that alleged pollution by a slaughterhouse, MEG, and the Bengaluru Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB). The BWSSB was also directed to pay ₹1 crore as environmental compensation.
Additional Solicitor General Arvind Kamath, representing MEG, argued that an open stormwater drain under BWSSB flows through MEG’s premises into the lake, contributing to the pollution. He stated that the sewage load from MEG is minimal and plans for a 1,200-KLD sewage treatment plant (STP) are underway.
The bench noted that no proper liability assessment had been conducted against MEG, and no opportunity was provided for them to present their defence before the demand notice was issued.
The matter will now be re-examined by the NGT.
