Chief Minister's Helicopter Lands at Incorrect Location, Triggers Security Investigation
A significant security and logistical mix-up occurred in Lingasugur town, Raichur district, on Sunday when the helicopter carrying Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah landed at an unplanned location. Instead of arriving at the specially prepared helipad at Srinivas Layout on Raichur Road, the CM's aircraft touched down at the helipad designated for BJP MLA Manappa Vajjal on Kalaburagi Road.
Confusion and Embarrassment as Officials Await CM Elsewhere
This unexpected landing created considerable confusion and embarrassment for the district administration. Only two police sub-inspectors were present at the actual landing site, while district officials, legislators, and police personnel were gathered at the scheduled helipad, anticipating the chief minister's arrival.
Their bewilderment increased when a helicopter carrying Public Works Minister Satish Jarkiholi arrived at the designated spot instead of Siddaramaiah. Upon realizing the chief minister had landed at a different location, the entire contingent rushed to meet him at the alternate site.
Security Lapse Suspected Amid Speculation
The incident sparked immediate speculation, particularly since Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar's helicopter was scheduled to land at the original helipad just minutes after Siddaramaiah's planned arrival. Some observers wondered if the chief minister himself had suggested the change in landing location.
However, police sources have clarified that the confusion is being treated as a serious security lapse. An official investigation will be conducted to determine how this deviation from the planned security protocol occurred and who bears responsibility for the error.
CM Criticizes Central Government Over Irrigation Project Delays
Earlier in Dharwad, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah launched a strong critique against the central government regarding delays in approving major irrigation projects in Karnataka. He accused BJP functionaries from the state of misleading the public by suggesting that his administration was responsible for the hold-ups.
Scathing Attack During Infrastructure Event
During an event to lay the foundation stone for the Bennihalla flood control project and other infrastructure development work in Shiraguppi, Hubballi district, Siddaramaiah delivered a pointed rebuke. He emphasized that the BJP-led NDA government has not granted clearance for the crucial Kalasa-Banduri Nala project and has failed to issue a gazette notification for implementation of Upper Krishna Project-Phase 3.
The chief minister insisted that Karnataka is fully prepared to commence work on both projects immediately if the central government provides the necessary approvals. He challenged the narrative that state-level inefficiencies were causing delays.
Direct Criticism of Union Minister
Siddaramaiah specifically targeted Union Minister Pralhad Joshi, accusing him of disseminating misinformation. "Instead of falsely accusing our government, he should focus on ensuring the Centre provides the required clearances and funding," the chief minister stated firmly.
He argued that Joshi and other BJP representatives were deliberately confusing the public about where responsibility truly lies for these critical infrastructure delays, which affect water management and agricultural development across the state.
