MYSORE: National SC/ST Commission has warned the state government of action, if it misuses or divert funds earmarked for the development and welfare of SC/STs.
SC Commission member Shivanna said the Commission will approach the President with regard to the issue of states misusing SC/ST funds and ask the Centre to act against these governments.
The Commission has asked Prime Minister Manmohan Singh to bring the issue of misuse of SC/ST funds under the ambit of Lokpal.
He said: “We want a permanent SC Commission member in the Lokpal committee to look into the misuse of SC/ST funds to protect the interest of Dalits.” Clarifying that the Commission has opposed the inclusion of new castes into the SC/ST list without its approval or opinion, he said they have prompted the Delhi government to return `650 crore Special Component Programme funds utilised during Common Wealth Games for the welfare of Dalits.
Shivanna said the Commission will strongly oppose the closure or merger of hostels in the state.
He said the Union government has increased the scholarships of students and released `550 crore for Karnataka to reimburse the fees of Dalit students who are doing technical and higher education.
They have directed the government to improve basic facilities in hostels, appoint tutors to teach English, Mathematics and other subjects.