Bengaluru: Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Friday said the Income Tax depart has the absolute power to conduct raids but such raids would not be justified if the I-T department targets Congress leaders only.
Speaking with media persons after inaugurating the district sport complex at Shivamogga, the chief minister opined the I-T officials can conduct raids on those who evade paying income tax but such raids should be conducted without any discrimination.
The chief minister said the Congress would not go to people to highlight the infighting among BJP leaders but it would showcase the developmental works and welfare schemes implemented during Congress regime. “I am not sure whether the internal problems of BJP will benefit Congress in the elections but Congress will certainly take all measures to highlight the achievements during Congress regime in the state,’’ the chief minister said.
He said the attacks on women and children deserve condemnation. “The government will not tolerate atrocities and attacks on women and children. Stringent action will be taken against the culprits without any mercy,’’ he said.
When asked about the corruption charges against Mayor of Shivamogga City Corporation, he said an inquiry would be ordered to probe the allegations.
On Lokayukta
The chief minister said the selection committee had recommended Justice P Vishwanath Shetty for the post of Lokayukta and the Governor had asked some clarifications from the state government. “The government will send all the information sought by the Governor,’’ he said.
7th Pay Commission
The chief minister said the state budget would be presented in the Assembly in March and the government would announce the decision to constitute 7th Pay Commission for state government employees. “The 7th Pay Commission will submit a report on the pay disparity between the state government and the Central Government employees. The government, after receiving the report, will take a final decision. I am with government employees. I will implement the recommendations of the 7th Pay Commission without any delay. I am always for the state government employees but some people have been spreading rumours stating that I am against to the employees,’’ the chief minister said.
