Tumakuru: Union Minister of State for Railways, V Somanna, has criticized the Karnataka government for delaying approval to rename Tumkur railway station after Sri Shivakumara Swamiji, a revered spiritual leader. Despite sending four letters and personally meeting Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, he has received no response.
Government Inaction Stalls Progress
Speaking at an event in Tumakuru on Saturday, Somanna revealed that a ₹90 crore tender had been issued for station development, yet no progress has been made in the past six months. He has reached out to top state officials, including the Chief Secretary and Finance Secretary, but their response has been unsatisfactory.
Somanna’s Appeal for Swift Action
The Union Minister stated that he has avoided interfering in state matters for nine months, trusting the government to act. However, he urged authorities to expedite the renaming process, warning them to fulfill their responsibilities. Tumkur railway station, a Grade B station, is a crucial transit hub for the region.
Somanna’s National Responsibilities
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has appointed Somanna as a representative for seven eastern states. He has already visited Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Meghalaya, and Himachal Pradesh to discuss regional concerns with local leaders.
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