Chikodi district demand gains momentum, govt mulling major rejig: Jarkiholi

Belagavi: Public works minister Satish Jarkiholi on Sunday said the state govt was seriously examining the long-pending demand to carve Chikodi out of Belagavi and grant it district status.Speaking to reporters during his visit to Chikodi, Jarkiholi said discussions had already taken place at the govt level regarding district status for Chikodi.

He indicated that major administrative changes involving Belagavi district could materialise in the near future.The minister said he had visited Chikodi to directly hear public grievances and ensure appropriate action was taken to address them. He assured residents that the government remained committed to resolving local issues and accelerating development in the region.Referring to reports of crop losses due to scanty rainfall in parts of Chikodi, Jarkiholi said officials had been instructed to conduct a joint survey of the affected areas.

The government would take a decision on compensation for farmers after reviewing the survey report, he added.Though rainfall has been below normal in several parts of Karnataka, particularly the Chikodi region, the minister said there was currently no shortage of drinking water. He expressed hope that the region would receive adequate rainfall in the coming days.Asked about the controversy surrounding the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) meeting in Belagavi and remarks by state Congress chief BK Hariprasad that it could trigger unrest, Jarkiholi declined to comment.

“I do not have sufficient information on the matter. We will have to wait and see what happens,” he said.Responding to allegations by BJP leaders that permanent residence certificates were being issued to illegal immigrants, Jarkiholi said such certificates would be granted only to eligible residents and strictly as per rules.“Stringent laws are in place to identify and act against ineligible persons. No benefits will be extended to anyone outside the framework of law,” he said, adding that the government would ensure full compliance with legal provisions while issuing residence certificates.