Our land and language always first: DCM

Bengaluru, Feb 14: Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar today said that Karnataka’s land and Kannada language are always the first priority for the government.

Speaking to reporters at the KPCC office, he said, “A lot of Marathi people living in Belagavi are from Karnataka. Karnataka’s land and language will always be the first priority. Everyone has to stay united.”

Replying to a reporter’s comment that MES had requested the Maharashtra government to set up an office in Belagavi, he said, “The Government has created a lot of infrastructure for the people in rural areas of Belagavi district. They are living on our land, breathing our air, drinking our water and cultivating our land. We will announce a project worth Rs 900 crore in the upcoming budget to provide drinking water to Belagavi rural.”

Asked about Lok Sabha elections, he said, “The list of candidates is getting ready. Chief minister and I had a round of discussion on this and we will discuss it with the AICC General secretary. The list will be sent to the High Command after it is vetted by the Screening Committee.”

Asked if names of Rajya Sabha candidates will be recommended to the High Command, he said names would be recommended but the final decision will be left to the High Command.

Pointed to the High Court expressing dissatisfaction over slow progress in the investigation of 40% commission allegations, he said, “The investigation has been given to a Committee, it is their job.”

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