Kalaburagi: Karnataka Chief Minister D K Shivakumar on Tuesday said he was reviewing the situation in various parts of the state amid the prospect of drought in several regions.

He noted that a legal framework exists for declaring an area drought-affected.

He, however, remained non-committal on the demand for a farm loan waiver in view of the drought-like situation, saying, “Let us examine it.” “I have come here to review the drought-like situation. I am meeting people and public representatives. In a couple of days, I will also visit the Belagavi region,” Shivakumar told reporters here.

“There is a legal framework for declaring an area drought-affected and for addressing the issues arising out of the situation,” he added.

When asked about a farm loan waiver, he said, “How much is the loan, and where? Let us examine it and speak later.” During the visit, people submitted petitions seeking solutions to their problems.

To hear and address such grievances, the government has set up a new ‘Praja Seva’ Department, which will be headed by a minister.

The department will examine citizens’ petitions and provide relief wherever possible.

Earlier, at the Government Guest House in Kalaburagi, Shivakumar received petitions directly from members of the public regarding their grievances.