The opposition in the Dharwad municipal corporation has strongly criticized the resolution that rejected the demand for a separate corporation for Dharwad, accusing the ruling party of passing it without any discussion during the recent general body meeting amid strong protests.
Opposition Leader's Allegations
Addressing a press conference, leader of the opposition Imran Yaligar claimed that BJP members, including the floor leader, walked out of the meeting without participating in the debate, despite having earlier supported the demand for a separate corporation for Dharwad. He accused the ruling party of misleading the public by now arguing that a larger, unified corporation would attract more funds.
Impact on Civic Services
Yaligar stated that the concentration of civic officials in Hubballi would adversely affect service delivery in Dharwad. This, he warned, could lead to delays in issuing birth and death certificates, granting building approvals, and carrying out other civic works. He questioned the sudden shift to a 'greater corporation' model, noting that the Congress government had agreed on the floor of the Assembly to consider a separate corporation for Dharwad.
Congress Corporators' Criticism
Congress corporators Raju Kamati and Kavita Kabbur also criticized BJP members for allegedly avoiding discussion during the meeting. They accused the ruling party of trying to deny Congress credit for the separate corporation proposal and of misleading the people of Dharwad.
Eligibility and Future Plans
They maintained that the twin cities were not yet eligible for upgradation into a larger corporation and alleged that BJP leaders were treating Dharwad merely as an extension of Hubballi. Calling it a U-turn, they said the people would respond at the appropriate time and asserted that the fight for a separate civic body would continue.
Intensifying the Agitation
Reiterating the opposition's stand, Yaligar said consultations would be held with citizens, organizations, and political leaders to intensify the agitation. He emphasized that their objective is to secure a separate municipal corporation for Dharwad to ensure efficient governance and better civic services.
