Centre ready to co-operate if State tells truth on Jal Jeevan Mission: MP Bommai

Bengaluru Express
Haveri, Feb. 17:
Stating that the claim that Karnataka has been denied Rs 18,000 crore under the Jal Jeevan Mission is completely false and if the state government stops spreading lies and tells us the truth, the BJP MPs are ready to cooperate and will speak to the ministers concerned and ensure that funds are released. But this issue must not be politicised, said former Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai.

Speaking to the media after a public meeting in Haveri on Sunday, he said that the Jal Jeevan Mission has been operational for the past four years with cooperation between the central and state governments. The union government releases funds only after the state government spends the money. Since the state government has depleted its treasury and is financially struggling, it has been unable to spend money upfront. If the state submits records of its expenditures, the central government will reimburse the funds. ” We are willing to support the state government, but they must be honest about the facts. We will engage with the ministers concerned and ensure fund disbursement, but politics should not be involved in this matter”.

Closing universities not a good move:

When asked about the state government’s proposal to close nine new universities, he said the concept of universities has evolved over time. Universities were established in Karnataka during the 1950s and 1960s, and there is a significant difference in the number of colleges and students between then and now. They opened universities in backward districts to benefit SC, ST, and underprivileged students. These varsities do not require significant funding. The Congress government has not provided even a single penny, yet these universities are functioning solely through the fees collected from students.

Bommai said since most operations are conducted through postgraduate centers, the government has not allocated any land. These institutions are effectively implementing digital and distance education. They have greatly benefited SC, ST, OBC students, and women. If these universities are shut down, it will be a massive setback for higher education among marginalized communities. Students, parents, and intellectuals across all districts are already opposing this move. Instead of strengthening these institutions with minimal funds, the government’s decision to close them is highly unjust.

The former CM said the state spends hundreds of crores on old universities, many of which are in poor condition. There are numerous vacant faculty positions, and several courses lack students. Many of these universities have deteriorated due to corruption. On the other hand, the newly established universities, which have shown significant progress in just two years, are now being shut down. This is a severe blow to higher education. The state government acted similarly regarding the National Education Policy (NEP). Intellectuals and the general public must fight against this decision and pursue legal action.

On Godavari-Cauvery river linking project

Asked about former Prime Minister H.D. Deve Gowda’s statement that Karnataka has been treated unfairly regarding the Godavari-Cauvery river linking project, the BJP MP said he did not know what information Deve Gowda has. If Karnataka has indeed been wronged, they will always fight for the state’s interests, setting aside political lines.

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