Bengaluru: Karnataka Chief Minister DK Shivakumar on Sunday made an appeal to his constituency, Kanakapura in Bengaluru South district, to maintain peace and harmony. He instructed police not to register frivolous cases, urged farmers to stay focused on agriculture which is "more lucrative than urban jobs," and claimed land prices in his home district have "quadrupled" ever since Ramanagara was renamed in a brand-upgrade exercise.
Priorities for the Region
Shivakumar listed Ashraya, Arogya, and Akshara (shelter, health, and education) as priorities for the region. He announced that CSR schools will be established in one-in-three taluks.
Janashirvada Yatra
In his first barnstorming rally of his home district after assuming the CM's office, Shivakumar kicked off his Janashirvada yatra (seeking blessings from his constituents) and visited about a dozen villages in and around Kanakapura. During pitstops and temple visits, the CM spoke about his vision for the region and the state. He made a soft pitch for the 2028 elections, asking people: "Do you want a two-year CM or one with a full term?"
Appeal for Peace
The CM urged locals to "be friendly with each other, and not quarrel. This should be a zero-police-case taluk in Karnataka. Kanakapura has a court; there is no need to go to Ramanagara (district headquarters) and Bengaluru."
Real Power and Guarantees
He said real power rests with voters, who ensured the state received five guarantees as promised in the 2023 election manifesto of the Congress party. He sought their support for Congress's victory in 2028 as well.
Voter Roll Revision Warning
During his speeches expressing gratitude to voters and visiting local deities, the CM warned the people of the likely consequences of the Election Commission's voter-roll revision exercise, or Special Intensive Revision. "If you want your Gruha Lakshmi, Gruha Jyothi and Anna Bhagya, ensure your votes are here," he told supporters.
Land Value and Agriculture
Reminding them of appreciation in land value, he urged locals to retain land and continue with agriculture, horticulture, and sericulture activities. "You have milk centres unparalleled in the state and have contributed largely to Bamul, a district milk cooperative. Do not sell your land; people of Bengaluru will come here. Your agricultural activities will earn you as much as jobs in the city," he said.
Youth and Employment
He urged youths not to form workers' unions. Instead, he asked them to upskill and take up jobs in Harohalli, an industrial township near Kanakapura.
Hospital Promise
Reminding locals that BS Yediyurappa, as BJP CM, shifted a government hospital from their region to Chikkaballapur, he said the foundation stone will be laid for the hospital in Kanakapura within one month. "This first-ever hospital in the taluk headquarters will be operational within two years. DK Suresh has ensured Infosys funded Rs 60 crore to the mother-and-child-care hospital here."
Grievance Redressal
He appointed a KAS officer to collect all grievances from his constituents and pass them on for direct redressal.
