Kalaburagi (Karnataka), Sep 17 (NationPress) In response to the complaints lodged with Governor Thaawar Chand Gehlot regarding the classification of Christians within Hindu caste groups in the caste survey, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah emphasized on Wednesday that Christians and Muslims are also Indian citizens.

This assertion by CM Siddaramaiah gains importance as the BJP accuses him of promoting religious conversions through the caste census survey.

While addressing the media in Kalaburagi, CM Siddaramaiah mentioned, "The government has appointed 1.75 lakh teachers for the caste survey. From September 22 to October 7, they will visit every household in the state to gather data. This time, 40,000 additional teachers have been deployed compared to the previous survey."

In reaction to the BJP’s concerns regarding the inclusion of the ‘Atheist’ category in the caste survey, CM Siddaramaiah stated, "The BJP is politicizing this situation. It has been 78 years since Independence, and it is essential for the government to understand the economic, social, and educational status of the citizens in the state. Once the survey report is completed, it will enable the government to design suitable schemes."

Addressing the Central Government, CM Siddaramaiah pointed out that Karnataka has made several requests to increase the NRP (Natural Resource Protection) compensation. Despite personal visits to the Central Finance Secretary and Union Home Minister Amit Shah, the Central Government has yet to respond to the state’s appeals.

On the issue of rice exports under the Public Distribution Scheme, the Chief Minister confirmed that a CID investigation has been initiated and is progressing rapidly.

The government has decided to establish a separate ministry, with officials to be appointed soon. This initiative aims to provide new momentum to the development of Kalyana Karnataka.

To facilitate compensation for crop losses in the state, the Chief Minister has instructed a joint survey to be conducted by the Revenue and Agriculture Departments. Following the submission of the survey report, crop loss compensation will be distributed to farmers, he noted.

The survey report is anticipated to be presented within a week, after which compensation for crop loss will be allocated. This year, rainfall has been approximately 4 percent above normal compared to the state’s average. Significant crop losses have been reported in several areas of North Karnataka, including Bidar, Kalaburagi, and Yadgir, and compensatory measures will be taken accordingly, stated the CM.

In the financial year 2024–25, crop insurance claims totaling Rs 656 crore have been disbursed. Compensation for farmers who have not secured crop insurance will be reviewed, and the request for loan waivers, as urged by farmers, will also be evaluated, he mentioned.

In addressing accusations that flood conditions in the state were reported late to the Centre last year, the Chief Minister clarified that flood-related reports were submitted punctually. However, due to delays from the Central Government, the State Government had to approach the Supreme Court, eventually leading to the receipt of compensation.