Former Chief Minister and Janata Dal (Secular) leader H D Kumaraswamy on Friday warned that anti-people governments will crumble, as he awaits a response from Chief Minister D K Shivakumar on the controversial Bidadi Township project. Speaking to reporters, Kumaraswamy claimed that around 80 per cent of the villagers in the region are opposing the project.
Kumaraswamy's statement on Bidadi Township
Kumaraswamy said, "Around 80 per cent of the villagers are opposing the Bidadi Township project. The government should listen to the people's voice. If it continues with anti-people policies, it will crumble." He added that he has written to Chief Minister Shivakumar seeking a meeting to discuss the issue but has not yet received a response.
Background of the Bidadi Township project
The Bidadi Township project, a joint venture between the Karnataka Industrial Areas Development Board (KIADB) and a private developer, aims to create a satellite township near Bengaluru. However, it has faced opposition from local farmers and residents who fear displacement and loss of agricultural land. The project has been a contentious issue in Karnataka politics, with Kumaraswamy and his party opposing it.
Political implications
Kumaraswamy's comments come amid growing tensions between the ruling Congress party and the opposition JD(S). The former CM has been critical of the Congress government's policies, particularly on land acquisition and farmer welfare. He said, "The government must reconsider its approach. If it ignores the people, it will face consequences."
Awaiting CM's response
Kumaraswamy said he has not yet heard from Chief Minister Shivakumar regarding his request for a meeting. "I have written to him, but there is no response. I hope he will listen to the people's concerns," he said. The issue is expected to be discussed in the upcoming legislative session.
