Khandre explained that the Prime Minister's visit to Mysuru-Bandipur coincided with the election period...
Digital Desk: Karnataka Forest Minister Eshwar Khandre announced on Monday that the state government will cover the hospitality expenses incurred during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Mysuru in April last year. The visit, commemorating 50 years of Project Tiger, resulted in a bill of Rs 80 lakh.
Minister Khandre clarified that hosting dignitaries such as the Prime Minister and the President is a customary responsibility of the state government. However, due to the Assembly elections in Karnataka at that time, the state government was not involved in organizing the event, as the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) was in effect.
During his address to reporters, Khandre explained that the Prime Minister's visit to Mysuru-Bandipur coincided with the election period, thus making the event a Central government affair. Initially, an expenditure of around Rs 3 crore was planned for the event, but the actual costs escalated to approximately Rs 6.33 crore. The National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) is expected to cover the additional ₹3.3 crore.
The state’s forest department had requested the NTCA to handle the additional costs, but the authority indicated that the Rs 80 lakh hotel bill should be paid by the state government. Minister Khandre confirmed that the state government will reimburse this amount, ensuring there is no conflict.
Reports had emerged suggesting that the hotel where the Prime Minister stayed might seek legal action to recover unpaid dues. In response, Khandre assured that the issue would be resolved amicably, emphasizing the state’s commitment to honoring its obligations.
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