MLA B. Shivanna appointed KSPCB chairman, says lake, air pollution control among priorities

B. Shivanna | Photo Credit: SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT Congress MLA for Anekal B. Shivanna has been appointed Chairman of the Karnataka State Pollution Control Board (KSPCB) for a three-year term, on September 25.Speaking about his priorities after being appointed, Mr. Shivanna said that controlling pollution in lakes, reducing air pollution in Bengaluru, promoting electric vehicle use and strengthening solid waste management would be among his key areas of focus.“My priority will be to prevent pollution of lakes and take concrete measures to reduce air pollution in Bengaluru. We will encourage greater use of electric vehicles and give special attention to solid waste management, which is one of the major contributors to the city’s pollution and growing garbage crisis. These issues require focused and effective measures, and I will work towards addressing them during my tenure,” Mr. Shivanna said.His appointment, however, comes amid renewed questions over the eligibility and selection of political figures to head pollution control boards. Environmental activists have been arguing that the chairman of a State Pollution Control Board is required to have special knowledge or practical experience in matters relating to environmental protection, or knowledge and experience in administering institutions dealing with environmental protection.Questions over eligibility criteriaEnvironmental and social activist R. Anjaneya Reddy, who recently submitted a representation to the Chief Secretary of the State seeking compliance with the legal requirements governing the appointment, questioned the appointment of an MLA to the post.“Appointing an MLA as the Chairman of the KSPCB raises serious questions about whether the prescribed eligibility and selection criteria have been followed. The Supreme Court has laid down requirements relating to qualifications, specialised knowledge and practical experience for such appointments. We had already raised these concerns with the government and pointed out that there are several scientists and environmental experts who meet the eligibility criteria. Despite this, a political appointment has now been made. We will pursue the matter through legal channels,” Mr. Reddy told The Hindu.Responding to questions about his eligibility, Mr. Shivanna however said that his academic background in Zoology was relevant to environmental issues. “I have completed my Master’s in Zoology. I have studied environmental issues in depth and believe my academic background gives me knowledge of environmental matters,” he said. Published - September 28, 2026 09:15 pm IST