Union Minister HD Kumaraswamy has sharply criticized the Karnataka government for passing the Greater Bengaluru Governance Bill, a legislative move that proposes to reorganize the city’s administration by creating multiple municipal corporations. Despite fierce opposition, the bill was passed in the assembly on Monday.
Kumaraswamy accused the Congress-led government of using division as a political tool, claiming that its approach was rooted in a “divide and rule” strategy. He criticized the ruling party on social media, saying, “The Congress is unmatched in its ability to divide and break things! For 75 years, it has been practicing this and continues to do so.”
The Union Minister also alleged that the bill’s true purpose was to dismantle the legacy of Bengaluru’s founder, Nadaprabhu Kempegowda, and facilitate corruption. He expressed his discontent by drawing comparisons to historical invaders, stating, “Looters like Muhammad Ghazni and Muhammad Ghori plundered a prosperous India. Now, a new Ghazni or Ghori has emerged in Bengaluru, looking for seven ways to loot!”
In response, Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar, who also serves as the Bengaluru Development Minister, defended the bill, arguing that the restructuring was necessary due to the city’s rapid growth. He explained, “Bengaluru, as it stands today, is difficult to govern. Even the Opposition admits that it has outgrown its original boundaries. This is not about weakening the city but streamlining governance to improve efficiency.”
Shivakumar further emphasized that creating seven corporations under the Greater Bengaluru Authority would enhance accountability and strengthen the city’s position as a global hub. He likened the bill to previous administrative changes, such as the creation of new districts, which were made to improve governance. He reassured citizens that grants would remain unaffected by the changes.
State Minister Priyank Kharge also backed the bill, suggesting it would boost governance, attract investments, and create jobs in Bengaluru. He took a swipe at the BJP, accusing the opposition party of resisting progress without offering viable alternatives. “BJP opposes everything we propose for progress,” he remarked.
Meanwhile, MLA Rizwan Arshad argued that the bill would bring greater transparency and efficiency to governance. “The BJP’s opposition is purely political. The governor will see the merit in this proposal,” he added.
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