Karnataka Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa has issued strict warnings against those who no longer fit within the criteria to hold BPL cards but are still in possession of one.

He said that people who have overcome the BPL category should voluntarily surrender the cards at the earliest.

Interacting with the media on February 16 during his visit to Sogane near Shivamogga for inspecting the construction of an airport, the CM said the police will take strict actions against the defaulters.

He further informed that he has directed the deputy commissioners to identify unqualified people taking benefits of BPL cards and initiate action against them.

"The state government will continue issuing BPL cards for benefits of the poor people," he said.

Yediyurappa had highlighted this issue on June 4 last year as well, when informed that the government employees and owners of tractors and other vehicles using BPL ration cards must return it immediately.

BS Yediyurappa further warned that if one failed to do o then stringent legal action would be initiated against them.

The CM had issued directions regarding this to the officials after conducting a review meeting of Food and Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs department.