Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah Warns DCs and CEOs Against Negligence Amid Dengue Outbreak

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah issued a stern warning to the state’s Deputy Commissioners (DCs) and Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) on Monday, emphasizing their roles as public servants and stressing the importance of addressing the spread of dengue with urgency. In a meeting held at the Conference Hall of the Vidhana Soudha, he reminded the officials that they are not maharajas but are accountable to the public.

“If Deputy Commissioners feel that they are maharajas, development and progress are not possible. Both politicians and bureaucrats are public servants, and with this in mind, they should serve the people,” Siddaramaiah stated.

The Chief Minister highlighted the necessity of taking immediate and coordinated action to contain dengue cases. He urged DCs and District Health Officers (DHOs) to work closely with taluk-level officers to address the situation effectively. Siddaramaiah warned that while actions had been taken against lower-rung officers for negligence and apathy, senior officers would now also be held accountable.

“Many deaths were reported from the consumption of contaminated water. If these cases recur, action will be initiated against senior officers,” Siddaramaiah stressed.

He pointed out that Karnataka is regarded as a model state in good governance and that maintaining this reputation requires everyone’s commitment. The Chief Minister expressed frustration over the large number of public grievances, indicating a lack of adequate response from officials.

“I am receiving 15,000 to 20,000 petitions during public grievance meetings. If the officers had looked into them, I would not have received such a huge number of petitions. The DCs and CEOs who attend public grievance meetings are merely endorsing the complaint copies. Are you here to do just this?” Siddaramaiah questioned.

Despite the critical tone, Siddaramaiah clarified that the purpose of the meeting was not to criticize but to review the current state of affairs and ensure better governance moving forward.

The Chief Minister’s remarks underline the pressing need for diligent public service and effective management of health crises, aiming to safeguard the well-being of Karnataka’s citizens and uphold the state’s governance standards.