Mangaluru: While refuting criticism by pourakarmikas that flats being constructed for them at Mahakalipadpu in the city were too small, Minister for Urban Development and Housing U.T. Khader said here on Tuesday said the flats are being constructed as per the norms laid down by the Union government.

Talking to reporters, Mr. Khader said that the Union government gives ₹ 72,000 and the State contributes ₹ 48,000 for a flat constructed in rural areas.

Similarly, the Union government gives ₹ 1.5 lakh and the State contributes ₹ 1.2 lakh for a flat built in urban areas.

“If we opt to build a bigger flat, it will be for a well-to-do family and there will be no subsidy from the Union government,” he said. Mr. Khader said that the flats were being constructed for those who have found it difficult to find a proper shelter.

When the constraints faced by pournakarmikas in living in flats constructed on 350 square foot area were pointed out, Mr. Khader said that he will raise the issue at the meeting of the Rajiv Gandhi Housing Corporation.

“We will discuss the issue and propose to the Union government to bring in changes in the norms,” he said.

The Minister said that after the Cabinet expansion, he is yet to decide on surrendering one among two portfolios with him now.

“I was busy all these days. I did not get time to think,” he said, with a smile on his face. Mr. Khader denied reports that he had reportedly told the Congress high command about retaining the Urban Development portfolio.

“All portfolios are equally important. I will abide by the directions of the party high command,” he said. Mr. Khader said that chairpersons to various boards and corporations will be finalised by the end of January.