Karnataka Govt to use 'PayCM' officially to receive donations to CMRF?

Bengaluru: Karnataka government has reportedly decided to take advantage of the ‘PayCM’ controversy by rebranding the same to receive digital donations for CMRF.

Sources said that it has been suggested to create a digital app named ‘PayCM Digital’ for receiving donations to ‘Pay to Chief Minister’s Relief Fund (CMRF)’. By this, the government hopes to turn the controversy into opportunity.

A member of the ruling party and MLC M.K. Pranesh reportedly appealed to the Chairman of the Legislative Council on Thursday to this effect. It is said that there is a possibility of it being approved.

The government makes no budgetary allocation to the CMRF. The donations made by the general public, Corporate Institutions, Board-Corporations, and others constitute the CMRF. The donations are totally exempted from Income tax.

At present, the bulk of the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund made up of contributions under corporate social responsibility (CSR) from IT-BT companies in the state and donations from donors.

The Chief Minister can use his discretion to use the funds for providing financial assistance to the needy.