JD(S) leader H D Kumaraswamy on Thursday reminded Chief Minister D K Shivakumar about a letter he had written regarding discussions on the Bidadi development project. Kumaraswamy also announced that he would be in Byramangala on June 27 to interact with farmers.
Letter and Farmer Interaction
Kumaraswamy, a former chief minister, stated that he had written to Shivakumar earlier seeking a dialogue on the Bidadi issue. He urged the CM to respond to the letter, emphasizing the need for clarity on the project's impact on local farmers. "I have reminded the chief minister about my letter. The farmers of Bidadi and Byramangala deserve answers," Kumaraswamy said.
He confirmed his visit to Byramangala on June 27, where he plans to hold a direct conversation with affected farmers. "I will hear their concerns and discuss the way forward," he added.
Background of Bidadi Project
The Bidadi development project, aimed at industrial and residential expansion, has been a contentious issue in Karnataka. Farmers in the region have expressed concerns over land acquisition and compensation. Kumaraswamy's intervention comes amid growing political tensions between the ruling Congress and the opposition JD(S).
According to sources, the letter from Kumaraswamy to Shivakumar was sent earlier this month but has not received a formal response. The JD(S) leader's public reminder is seen as a move to pressure the government into addressing the matter.
Political Reactions
Reacting to Kumaraswamy's statement, Congress leaders dismissed it as political posturing. "The government is already working on the Bidadi project and engaging with stakeholders. There is no need for reminders from the opposition," a Congress spokesperson said.
Kumaraswamy, however, maintained that his approach is constructive. "This is not about politics; it is about the livelihood of thousands of farmers. The CM must take this seriously," he said.
Next Steps
With the Byramangala meeting scheduled for June 27, all eyes are on the state government's response. Kumaraswamy hinted at further action if the CM does not address the issue. "If needed, I will lead a delegation to meet the CM again," he warned.
The Bidadi issue is expected to feature prominently in the upcoming assembly session, with both sides gearing up for a debate.
