The Karnataka government is set to hold two significant meetings today. At 12 noon, the government will take a final decision on compensation for farmers whose lands were submerged due to the backwaters of the Krishna River. Later, at 3 PM, a special cabinet meeting will deliberate on the inclusion of the Kuruba community in the Scheduled Tribes (ST) list.

Following the Gazette notification issued by the central government, the state is preparing to raise the height of the Almatti Dam from 519 meters to 524 meters. Farmers, however, have been demanding compensation at government-fixed rates for the lands that will be acquired under this project. Protests have already been staged, and today’s meeting is expected to be decisive in determining whether justice will be delivered to the affected farmers. The Housemaid Is Watching: An Absolutely Addictive Psychological Thriller with a Jaw-Dropping Twist (The Housemaid series, Book 3) | TikTok Viral & Bestseller Pick Paperback – 11 June 2024

On the Kuruba ST inclusion issue:

At the ST Department office in M.S. Building, a meeting chaired by senior officials will be held today. Department heads and key officers will present essential documents and community data. According to available caste statistics, the Kuruba community’s demand for inclusion in the ST list will be discussed in detail.

Particular focus will be given to the Kuruba population in Bidar, Kalaburagi, and Yadgir districts, where similarities have been drawn with the existing ST Gonda community. This is a key factor in the ongoing debate over granting ST status to the Kurubas. Also Read: Bengaluru Police Crack Down on Luxury Watch Theft Racket: Hindupur Man Arrested with ₹10 Lakh Worth of Stolen Goods..!

Currently, the Kuruba community falls under the Other Backward Classes (OBC) Category 2A, enjoying 15% reservation benefits. In 2023, the Karnataka government had already recommended to the Centre to consider ST status for the community. Today’s deliberations are expected to conclude with fresh communication being sent to the central government. Also Read: Dharmasthala Case: SIT Plans On-Site Inspection in Banglegudde Forest, Seeks Legal Advice