Bengaluru, Feb 25 (NationPress) Asserting that the guarantee schemes are a burden, Karnataka Home Minister G. Parameshwara on Tuesday mentioned that the Congress-led state government is prepared to alleviate this for underprivileged individuals.

Addressing the press in Bengaluru, Home Minister Parameshwara stated, "It is clear that guarantee schemes impose a financial burden. However, is this burden a result of our initiatives to support the disadvantaged? The government understood that these schemes would lead to financial pressure."

"Any effort aimed at assisting the poor entails financial consequences, and we made a deliberate choice while being aware of this," he added.

In response to Turuvekere JD(S) MLA M.T. Krishnappa's proposal for guarantee schemes to be restricted to Below Poverty Line (BPL) cardholders, Parameshwara made it clear that the government is open to dialogue if the opposition presents suggestions.

The Minister noted that numerous individuals, including income taxpayers and government employees, have withdrawn from the schemes.

"A discussion on the revision of guarantee schemes is essential. Following that, a decision will be made. The advantages and disadvantages must be thoroughly debated. During the elections, it was not indicated that only BPL cardholders would qualify. After consultations, the government will reach a conclusion," he remarked.

"Our goal is to provide guarantee schemes for the poor. If the BJP opposes financial assistance to the underprivileged, it raises concerns about their ideology. The BJP is not aligned with the interests of the disadvantaged. Through demonstrations, they are clearly revealing this position. The public is taking note of all this," he stated.

Concerning the assault on a bus conductor in Belagavi, he mentioned, "I have directed the zonal IGP and SP to prepare a report. A POCSO case was registered against the accused in this incident. I have requested a review and a report on this case."

"Kannada organizations have been permitted to stage a protest today (Tuesday). They are expected to conduct a peaceful demonstration. Any violent conduct will be met with legal action. Currently, Maharashtra government buses are not entering Karnataka, and Karnataka buses are not traveling to Maharashtra. Bus services between the two states are temporarily halted and will resume once conditions normalize," he added.

Discussing the Udayagiri police station attack case in Mysuru, he remarked, "We have not obstructed BJP's protests. To avert unwanted occurrences, both sides were not allowed to protest. They sought judicial intervention, and following the court's direction, they protested at the designated area. I have advised them against politicizing this matter."

On the subject of the caste census report, he stated, "The Chief Minister has already confirmed that it will be made public. It will be released at an appropriate time."

When queried about Deputy CM D.K. Shivakumar's assertion that the upcoming election will be conducted under his leadership, Parameshwara questioned, "What is incorrect about his assertion?" He added, "Such matters are for the high command to determine. We do not involve ourselves in discussions between the high command and the party president."