“No Room for Middlemen, No Delay in Files”: CM Siddaramaiah Sends Strong Message to KAS Officers

Bengaluru: Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah delivered a sharp and reform-driven message to officers at an event organized by the Karnataka Administrative Service (KAS) Officers’ Association, urging them to eliminate middlemen from governance and ensure swift disposal of files. He warned that delays in administrative processes often open doors to corruption and insisted that efficiency and transparency must be non-negotiable in public service

Highlighting the legacy of the KAS cadre, the Chief Minister recalled its rich history spanning over a century and paid tribute to the contributions of Krishnaraja Wadiyar IV, under whose rule Mysore witnessed remarkable progress in social welfare, infrastructure, and industrial growth. He noted that past administrators, including former Diwans who led the association, set high standards of governance that should continue to guide present-day officerss

Emphasizing democratic responsibility, Siddaramaiah said the executive and legislature must work in tandem as representatives of the people. He reminded officers that their roles extend beyond administration to safeguarding public interest, particularly in an unequal society where vulnerable sections depend heavily on government support and intervention.

The Chief Minister also stressed the importance of empathy in governance. Officers, he said, should engage directly with rural citizens, understand their grievances, and resolve issues with compassion. He pointed out that direct benefit transfer schemes have significantly reduced the role of intermediaries, ensuring that welfare benefits reach beneficiaries without leakage or manipulation.

On career progression, Siddaramaiah assured that the government is actively working on promotions within the KAS cadre. He revealed plans to promote 33% of eligible officers to Chief Executive Officer (CEO) positions soon. Concluding his address, he urged officers to introspect and derive satisfaction from honest service, stating that there is no greater certificate than the fulfillment that comes from serving people with integrity.