In a bid to streamline welfare distribution, the Karnataka government has flagged 22.63 lakh Below Poverty Line (BPL) cardholders as ineligible. These cards, issued under the National Food Security Act (NFSA), currently exceed the state’s approved limit of 1.03 crore, with over 1.16 crore cards in circulation.
Food and Civil Supplies Minister K.H. Muniyappa revealed plans to cancel these cards, ensuring that welfare benefits like subsidized grains under Anna Bhagya reach only those who qualify. While the government aims to curb misuse and promote equitable resource allocation, the decision has drawn sharp criticism from the opposition. They argue that this could unfairly strip many families of essential support.
A private firm was engaged to verify eligibility, considering various criteria. While the government defends its move as a necessary reform, concerns linger over the potential fallout for families reliant on these welfare schemes.
