THE GOAN NETWORK
BELAGAVI
Karnataka Chief Minister D K Shivakumar on Thursday directed officials to intensify efforts to curb interstate drug and illicit liquor trafficking, particularly in border districts adjoining Goa, while reiterating his government's commitment to development, transparency and administrative discipline.
Addressing a meeting of district and taluka-level officials during his visit to Belagavi, Shivakumar expressed concern over the increasing challenges posed by narcotics and illegal liquor networks operating across state borders.
He stressed the need for closer coordination between the police, excise, revenue and other enforcement agencies to prevent such activities from affecting the youth and public health.
“Officials must remain accountable to the people every day. Development cannot take place if drugs and illegal liquor destroy the future of our young generation,” Shivakumar said.
His remarks assume significance in the wake of several recent incidents involving the seizure of narcotics and illegal liquor along the Karnataka-Goa border.
Belagavi district, especially border areas such as Khanapur, Jamboti and Kankumbi, has often figured in enforcement operations targeting the illegal movement of liquor, spirit and drugs between the two states.
Last month, excise officials seized nearly 14,000 litres of illegally transported spirit near Jamboti village, highlighting the continuing challenge faced by enforcement agencies.
Calling for citizen-friendly governance, Shivakumar directed officials to end the practice of making people move from one office to another for basic services. He stressed daily monitoring of field-level staff and urged officials to resolve all legally permissible issues at the local level itself.
He also instructed district and taluka-level officers to reside within their jurisdictions and ensure prompt response to public grievances.
The Chief Minister also announced measures aimed at improving governance, education and employment, including strengthening the Praja Seva Department, expanding doorstep e-Khata services, promoting quality schools under the CSR and KPS models, and launching the Yuva Udyoga Setu programme to connect young people with private-sector employment opportunities.
“Development, transparency and discipline are the three guiding principles of my government,” Shivakumar asserted.
The chief minister warned that dereliction of duty would not be tolerated and said officers found using mobile phones during official meetings would face disciplinary action.
