Madikeri: After facing lot of resentment over not addressing problems of thousands of Ex-servicemen in the district, Deputy Commissioner of Kodagu gave a patient hearing to their problems on February 8.

Kodagu DC Dr. Richard Vincent D’Souza assured the ex-servicemen of addressing their grievances in a phased manner while patiently listening to their complaints in the old fort auditorium.

President of ex-service union Major B A Cariappa (Retd) requested the DC to ensure ex-service men do not counter serious problem as most of them are deprived of basic amenities. Most have served in armed for a period ranging 15- 40 years deserve better life and government should support their cause , he stated.

They should be provided vacant sites along with medical benefits and their children should get 10% quota in Sainik school admissions, Major Cariappa (Retd ) urged.

Ex-Servicemen should be taxed only 50% in case of house taxes and a site to construct Ex-servicemen Union building should be allotted in the district head quarters, he requested.

Major Cariappa (Retd) sought early disposal of applications submitted by ex-servicemen under 50-53 category and urged the government not to evict them, widows and dependents from government owned land, even in cases of violations, he urged.