Compensation disparity sparks row in Karnataka: Yadgir MLA slams CM Siddaramaiah

Yadgir : Allegations of unequal treatment in compensation announcements have put the Siddaramaiah-led government under scrutiny, with Gurmitkal MLA Sharanagouda Kandakur accusing the Chief Minister of ignoring victims from Yadgir district.

In a letter addressed to the Chief Minister, Kandakur criticised the government for swiftly announcing ₹5 lakh compensation to families of six people who died in a drowning incident in Mysuru, while allegedly failing to extend similar relief to victims of multiple tragedies in Yadgir.

The MLA termed the approach “biased” and questioned whether the government was functioning for the entire state or favouring specific regions. He accused the administration of neglecting Yadgir despite recent fatal incidents that left several families devastated.

Among the incidents cited was the March 29 tragedy in Naganoor village, where four children lost their lives after falling into a farm pond. Additionally, on April 17, members of a single family were killed in a road accident involving a private bus near Shantapura Cross in Surpur taluk.

Kandakur pointed out that no compensation has been announced for these victims so far, nor have top officials reached out to the families. He demanded immediate financial assistance of ₹5 lakh per victim, similar to what was provided in Mysuru.

The  allegation has intensified political tensions, with critics arguing that compensation policies should be uniform and transparent. The episode has also raised questions about the government’s disaster response framework and its sensitivity to regional disparities.

Although there has been no formal reply from the Chief Minister’s office, political observers believe the issue could gain traction, especially if opposition parties take it up aggressively.

The situation highlights the importance of equitable governance and timely intervention in times of crisis. As demands for parity grow louder, the state government may be compelled to clarify its stance and address the concerns raised by the Yadgir MLA.