Karnataka Home Minister G. Parameshwara on Wednesday, 21 May said the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise has not been placed on the official Cabinet agenda in Karnataka, even as he acknowledged that informal discussions may have taken place around its potential political and electoral impact.

SIR Exercise: No Formal Cabinet Discussion Yet

Speaking to reporters in Bengaluru, Parameshwara said the Congress party had already articulated its position on the SIR issue. He noted that discussions around SIR tend to resurface ahead of state elections, and the current cycle is no different.

'Ahead of elections in five states, discussions regarding SIR have surfaced again. Especially during the West Bengal elections, concerns were raised over fears that our apprehensions regarding SIR could turn out to be true. There may be discussions on precautions to be taken here, but there is no mention of SIR in the official agenda,' he said.

The SIR, conducted by the Election Commission of India (ECI), involves a comprehensive review of electoral rolls and has drawn political scrutiny over concerns about potential voter deletions, particularly in opposition-governed states.

Criminal Case Withdrawals Under Sub-Committee Review

Responding to questions about the reported withdrawal of 50 criminal cases, Parameshwara said such matters could not be discussed publicly prior to a formal decision. He explained that a dedicated sub-committee within the Cabinet reviews withdrawal proposals, submits recommendations, and only after Cabinet approval is the matter forwarded to the prosecution department.

'The committee will submit its recommendations, following which the Cabinet will take a decision. Once approved, the matter will be forwarded to the prosecution department,' he stated.

Gold Misuse by Police: Immediate Enquiry Ordered

On allegations that Karnataka police personnel misused 700 grams of recovered gold, Parameshwara confirmed that immediate action had been initiated. He said the personnel involved had been suspended and a departmental enquiry ordered.

'If the allegations are proven, recommendations for punishment or dismissal will be made depending on the seriousness of the case,' he said. The minister added that he had personally directed the Bengaluru Police Commissioner to conduct an immediate enquiry and submit a report.

Pushing back on suggestions that such misconduct was recurring, Parameshwara described these incidents as rare. He also said he regularly advises senior officers to stay away from real estate dealings and similar activities during police conferences. 'Occasionally, an individual may indulge in such acts, but action will be taken against them,' he added.

Bidadi Township: Cabinet-Approved, Not a New Proposal

On the proposed Bidadi township project, Parameshwara said the plan had been in the pipeline for several years, first notified in 2006, and was not a fresh initiative. He said the project was originally conceived alongside the NICE Road development to establish three to four townships and ease pressure on Bengaluru city.

'Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar brought forward the proposal for the Bidadi township, and the Cabinet has approved it in its wisdom,' he said, adding that farmers would be consulted and all efforts made to implement the government's decision.

With the Karnataka government facing scrutiny on multiple fronts — from electoral roll revisions to police conduct — the coming weeks are likely to test the administration's ability to manage both institutional accountability and political optics ahead of the upcoming state elections.