Bengaluru, June 22: In response to an invitation from Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar for an open debate on the controversial Bidadi Township project, Union Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy has requested that the meeting be held in the affected Bidadi area rather than at Vidhana Soudha.
In a letter addressed to Shivakumar, Kumaraswamy emphasized the importance of including affected farmers, villagers, and other stakeholders in the discussion. He argued that a meeting at Vidhana Soudha would not be beneficial without their participation.
Kumaraswamy stated, “I received your letter dated June 22, inviting me and five other representatives to discuss the project. Thank you for the invitation.” He highlighted that farmers from eight villages in Bidadi Hobli and one village in Harohalli Taluk, along with local residents, are facing uncertainty and challenges due to the proposed ‘Bidadi Comprehensive Integrated Satellite Township Project.’
He expressed concerns that the project could severely impact local livelihoods and harm the environment. Given these issues, Kumaraswamy suggested that the meeting take place in the affected Bidadi area or at a public location in Bhairamangala.
He noted that allowing affected farmers, rural workers, women involved in dairy farming, small traders, and other stakeholders to participate in discussions would facilitate finding meaningful and practical solutions.
Kumaraswamy clarified that he has no personal interest in the project. “I want to make it clear through this letter that I have no personal stake in this project,” he said. He also requested that the proposed meeting be rescheduled to June 27, as he has prior commitments on June 26.
It is worth mentioning that Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar had previously invited Kumaraswamy for a formal discussion at his office in Vidhana Soudha on June 26, responding to Kumaraswamy’s challenge for a public debate on the township project.
Earlier, Kumaraswamy had challenged Shivakumar to discuss the project publicly, stating that farmers are opposed to it. Addressing a press conference, he insisted that Shivakumar should debate whether farmers agree with the project. He pointed out that women and the elderly have been protesting for the past 450 days and deserve to be heard.
Kumaraswamy alleged that the project would not benefit the public and would only serve to enrich Shivakumar. He also announced plans to take legal action against the project.
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