Synopsis
In Karnataka, the BJP and Congress are embroiled in a dispute over the proposed division of Bengaluru city. BJP leaders argue that such a move would disrespect the city's founder, Kempe Gowda, while Congress defends the plan for effective governance and improved living conditions.Key Takeaways
- BJP claims dividing Bengaluru disrespects Kempe Gowda.
- Congress proposes creating Greater Bengaluru for better governance.
- R. Ashoka criticizes Congress for failing to manage existing issues.
- Vijayendra warns against splitting the city.
- Debate centers on infrastructure and local governance.
Bengaluru, Feb 22 (NationPress) The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Congress party in Karnataka are currently at odds regarding the proposed division of Bengaluru city. The BJP asserted on Friday that such a move would be a direct affront to its founder, Kempe Gowda.
During a press conference at the BJP's state office, "Jagannath Bhavan" in Bengaluru, the Leader of the Opposition and BJP member R. Ashoka cautioned that splitting Bengaluru would dishonor its founder, Kempe Gowda.
"Almost 90 percent of Bengaluru residents uphold Kempe Gowda's vision. Dividing the city is a blow to their sentiments. Bengaluru, which was established by Kempe Gowda, should remain whole -- that is what the populace desires," he stressed.
He dismissed the Congress government's assertions about revitalizing Bengaluru, commenting, "Now, the Congress administration speaks of creating a Greater Bengaluru, segmenting the city into six or seven parts, and enlarging its boundaries. Yet, you can't even manage the current city, and still you're discussing expansion?"
Pointing out the government's misplaced focus, he remarked, "Instead of rectifying the 198 wards and conducting elections, you're allowing development projects to stall, roads to decay, and now you're proposing to build tunnel roads 150 feet underground. The city already has tunnels on the surface! Are you planning to dig even deeper?" he questioned.
State President B.Y. Vijayendra echoed on Friday that there is consensus that the division of Bengaluru to form Greater Bengaluru is not a wise decision.
He noted that the state government and Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar are advocating for the establishment of Greater Bengaluru through the restructuring of the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP).
"We have thoroughly examined the advantages and disadvantages of this decision with prominent community members," he said.
He asserted that partitioning Bengaluru is not conducive to the city's growth and that no chances should be given for such a move.
"This issue was deliberated in our meetings, and it was agreed that this decision should not be permitted under any circumstances," he stated.
The Siddaramaiah-led Congress government in Karnataka introduced a Bill in July 2024, which suggests dividing the state capital, Bengaluru, into smaller administrative regions for "effective governance," to "enhance political accountability," and to "elevate the quality of life."
The Congress administration has pledged to engage in consultation and discussion with stakeholders prior to finalizing the decision.
Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar is adamantly advocating for the partition of Bengaluru city and the formation of Greater Bengaluru.
Commenting on Deputy CM Shivakumar's remark that even after two to three years, or even with divine intervention, the circumstances in Bengaluru cannot be enhanced, BJP leader R. Ashoka claimed that Shivakumar's recent comments have provoked public outrage.
"The destiny of Bengaluru is now entrusted to divine forces. The Siddaramaiah-led government is directly accountable for stifling development aspirations and waste management in the city," he asserted.
He highlighted that even the potholes on the roads remain unattended, with IT industry veteran Mohandas Pai also commenting on the city’s poor condition.
He expressed alarm over the rising number of accidents caused by ruined roads, resulting in many citizens being hospitalized.
Ashoka further criticized the state of the city's markets, declaring that garbage has accumulated like towers in various markets, including City Market.
"At the onset of its term, this government made grand promises to the people of Bengaluru. Congress leaders asserted they would transform Bengaluru into a world-class brand, rivaling the grandeur of the Himalayan peaks. Now, the same Minister, the same individual responsible for Bengaluru, claims that even if God himself descended, Bengaluru cannot be salvaged. This exemplifies their failure," he remarked.
Ashoka also stated that Bengaluru has become an "orphaned city" under Congress leadership.
"Ministers responsible for Bengaluru show no genuine interest in the city. The Congress government has left Bengaluru neglected," he alleged.
He announced that the BJP has resolved to advocate for early elections to facilitate development and prioritize local governance.
"We have assembled a legal team of 15 members to pursue early elections in court. Our objective is to expedite elections and restore progress in Bengaluru," he stated.
He also accused the Congress administration of failing to maintain law and order.
"The law and order situation in Bengaluru has fallen prey to criminal syndicates. The control of the city has shifted to notorious figures," he alleged.
State President Vijayendra condemned Shivakumar for his assertion that conditions in Bengaluru cannot improve.
Shivakumar and the Congress party, who promised to elevate Bengaluru to the status of Singapore upon assuming power, are now making this statement, he noted while ridiculing the Congress administration.
He further charged, "The Congress government that cannot fill potholes is discussing tunnel roads. There is no development, and MLAs are not receiving adequate funding, while they speak of Bengaluru and the state's advancement. This is a tragedy. Bengaluru city is a global city, and India is perceived through the lens of Bengaluru, which has disheartened the populace."
When questioned about the backlash against Shivakumar's comment that "even after two to three years, or even if God intervenes, the situation in Bengaluru can't be improved," Home Minister G. Parameshwara responded, "Everyone is aware that Bengaluru is lacking in infrastructure. Bengaluru was not designed for this level of population and vehicle density. The city's population stands at approximately 1.4 crore, nearly matching the number of vehicles, and we lack infrastructure."
"Unless we develop infrastructure and distribute Bengaluru, traffic will continue to be our greatest challenge. Currently, we are making plans, and our Minister Shivakumar is also exploring alternatives. One of the options is to go underground, and that process has commenced," he added.
Parameshwara stated, "In some areas, we must implement flyovers, underpasses, and below-ground roads. This will require time, funding, and other resources. The issue cannot be resolved in the short term; it will take a bit longer."
