Scavengers Commission Chief's remarks 'irresponsible': Karunanidhi

Chennai, Aug 23 (UNI) Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M Karunanidhi today flayed the National Scavengers Commission Chairperson for her ''irresponsible'' remarks on the programmes implemented by the state government for the welfare of scavengers.

Referring to Commission Chairman Santosh Choudhary's reported remarks that the DMK government had failed to utilise the amount sanctioned by the Centre for the welfare of scavengers, Mr Karunanidhi, in a statement here said ''those holding responsible posts should speak responsibly.'' Listing out the measures initiated by the DMK government for the welfare of scavengers, the Chief Minister expressed regret that Ms Choudhary, without verifying the facts, found fault with the state government.

Mr Karunanidhi dismissed as ''incorrect'' and ''contrary to facts'' Ms Choudhary's remarks that the state government had spent only Rs 24.52 crore of the Rs 57.80 crore sanctioned by the Centre and this year's allocation of Rs 21 crore also remained untouched.

He said the amount of Rs 57.80 crore was sanctioned not for a single year, but for a period from 1992 to 2007-08. Till 2007-08, the state government had spent Rs 35.03 crore. The amount of Rs 21 crore for this year, was sanctioned only last month, he said.

''The amount of Rs 21 crore was sanctioned to the state only on July 8, but the Madam has found fault with the government for not spending the amount,'' Mr Karunanidhi said and accused a section of media of highlighting this without verifying the facts.

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