BENGALURU, JULY 10 :  The National Commission for Scheduled Castes (NCSC) has issued an urgent notice to Karnataka Chief Secretary, addressing the state’s controversial decision to divert substantial funds allocated for Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST) to welfare schemes under the five guarantees programme.

The notice, dated July 9, follows media reports revealing Karnataka government reallocating Rs 14,730.53 crores from the Karnataka Scheduled Caste Sub Plan (SCSP) and Tribal Sub Plan (TSP) to finance its welfare schemes.

This move has sparked a significant backlash from various quarters, raising concerns about the impact on development initiatives specifically designed for SC/ST communities.

The NCSC, a constitutional body established under Article 338 of the Constitution of India, is responsible for monitoring the development and welfare of Scheduled Castes.

In its notice, the Commission expressed grave concerns over the diversion of funds meant for the upliftment of these communities.

The notice also emphasised the urgency of the situation and requested that the Karnataka government furnish a comprehensive report within seven days. The NCSC underscored its mandate to oversee issues related to the Special Component Plan (SCP) and Special Central Assistance (SCA), as conferred by the Constitution of India.

This intervention by the NCSC highlights the critical need to ensure that funds allocated for SC/ST development are utilised appropriately and effectively. The outcome of this inquiry will be closely watched by stakeholders and the general public, as it addresses the broader implications of fund allocation and utilisation in welfare schemes.

As the controversy unfolds, the response from the Karnataka government and subsequent actions by the NCSC will be pivotal in determining the resolution of this contentious issue.(UNI)