Fresh registration for guarantee schemes draws anger from women, Congress leaders wary

BENGALURU: Chief Minister D K Shivakumar’s move to call for re-registration for the guarantee schemes has left many surprised. Even senior Congress leaders say promises must not be broken and advice to ensure it doesn’t become fodder for opposition parties.

There is much public outrage over re-application for guarantees and the CM’s decision has turned into a controversy. To weed out ineligible beneficiaries, notices are being sent to all beneficiaries and they must apply afresh for Gruha Lakshmi and Gruha Jyothi. The decision on re-application was taken to verify and get an accurate count of eligible beneficiaries. Women beneficiaries are, however, furious over DK Shivakumar’s move.

Senior leaders within the party have also expressed concerns that one decision could damage the image of the party and government. They questioned why everyone has to go through the process if eligibility criteria are fine and said that eligible people should not face trouble in the name of guarantee cuts.

They felt that the government must manage the guarantee schemes as per the promise made and advised that there should be no delay or hurdles in the guarantee schemes. They also said that the government should ensure that the issue doesn’t become a weapon for the opposition and added that the government should be cautious so that public trust in the party and government doesn’t erode.

Meanwhile, the state cabinet is expected to come out with fresh guidelines for Gruha Jyothi, Gruha Lakshmi registrations to prevent foul play. New application will be received from from August 15 and the Gruha Lakshmi dole will be given only to the woman head of family. If two or three people in a family are receiving money, it will be cut.

Chief Minister D K Shivakumar has the blueprint regarding guarantees and officials have already drafted the new rules. The new guidelines are likely to be announced after discussion in the cabinet on June 20.