In a dramatic turn of events, H.D. Kumaraswamy, the State President of JD(S), has issued a strong ultimatum to the Karnataka government. He has declared that he will go on a fast until death if the proposal to rename Ramanagara district as ‘Bengaluru South’ is pursued. Kumaraswamy, a former Chief Minister, asserted his emotional connection to the district, further escalating a recent challenge by Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar for an open debate on the district and the 2019 collapse of the Congress-JD(S) coalition government.
Source: DH
Kumaraswamy’s emotional bond with Ramanagara has taken center stage in the ongoing debate. He stated, “I have a dream about that district, so I too have a challenge for the sake of that dream.” He firmly expressed his willingness to risk his health and even his life by sitting on a fast until death should the district’s name be changed. His determination reflects a deep connection to the region and its significance in his political journey.
Responding to Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar’s open debate challenge, Kumaraswamy accepted it without hesitation. He asserted that he wouldn’t shy away from a public debate, stating, “I accept it, I will not run away because the materials that I have are not the ones which make me run away.” This willingness to engage in an open dialogue underscores his confidence in his knowledge and facts.
Ramanagara district, located about 48 km from Bengaluru, holds historical significance in the political career of H.D. Kumaraswamy. He was at the helm when the district was created in August 2007, encompassing several taluks. The proposed renaming to ‘Bengaluru South’ has raised concerns about the potential impact on the district’s identity and its historical ties with Kumaraswamy.
Deputy Chief Minister Shivakumar has laid down a challenge for an open debate, urging the discussion to be hosted either in the Karnataka Assembly or on news channels. Kumaraswamy’s acceptance of this challenge showcases his commitment to addressing critical issues in a public forum.
Source: udayavani
Kumaraswamy responded to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s claims that the previous BJP government was responsible for the state’s current financial condition. He welcomed the idea of a white paper during the upcoming assembly session, pointing out that financial discipline during Siddaramaiah’s Congress government also played a crucial role in shaping the state’s economic situation.
Siddaramaiah has repeatedly referred to Kumaraswamy as a “political villain.” In response, Kumaraswamy acknowledged his political stance, stating, “yes, I’m a villain for him politically.” He emphasized the importance of addressing past mistakes and challenges openly without compromising on the truth.
The ongoing political clash involves allegations and counter-allegations between the leaders. Kumaraswamy accused the Congress of initially requesting him to become Chief Minister but later imposing conditions on his governance, leading to the coalition government’s collapse. He also raised questions about Shivakumar’s involvement in land deals, further fueling the tension between the parties.motives behind the proposed district name change. He alleged that land and property interests of Shivakumar and his associates in Ramanagara may be influencing this decision. This claim suggests a deeper, underlying political struggle.
Source: Daijiworld.com
Kumaraswamy pointed out suspicious land acquisitions near the Bengaluru Mumbai Industrial Corridor and suggested that these lands might be included in the proposed Bengaluru South district. This observation adds complexity to the debate and raises questions about the true motivations behind the district’s renaming.
Kumaraswamy ended his response by challenging Magadi Congress MLA Balakrishna to bring the Chief Minister, Deputy Chief Minister, and Ministers of the government to swear before God regarding allegations of wrongdoing. This call for honesty underscores the need for transparency and accountability in the ongoing political feud.
