Bengaluru, Oct 25 (NationPress) The Deputy Chief Minister of Karnataka, D.K. Shivakumar, has urged Union Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy to specify the locations where industries should be established, stating that the process of land acquisition will commence based on his recommendations.

“If Kumaraswamy identifies the places for industrial development, we will initiate the land acquisition process there,” Shivakumar stated during a media interaction on Saturday at Bharat Nagar Gandhi Park in Herohalli, within the Yeshwanthpur constituency.

Addressing allegations from the JD-S regarding corruption in the conversion of A Khata and B Khata property documents, he asserted: “I have been inviting all parties for a transparent discussion. What corruption exists in the conversion of A Khata to B Khata? Our objective is to regularize property records for the citizens of Bengaluru, enabling them to access bank loans, pay taxes correctly, and enjoy improved civic amenities.

“This initiative is our sixth guarantee. No other city in India has rolled out such a project — in fact, we have received recognition from the central government for it. Thousands have already submitted applications. Why didn’t prior governments digitalize property records while they were in power? Why was E-Khata not implemented? They lacked the necessary vision.”

He further remarked: “Union Minister Kumaraswamy continues to express intentions of attracting industries — that’s fine, let him do so. Whether it’s in Ramanagara, Bidadi, or Mandya, he should provide a list of locations. If he submits applications for the necessary land, we will take action. Mere rhetoric won’t persuade anyone.”

Regarding the recent clash between Congress MLA Pradeep Eshwar and former MP Pratap Simha, Shivakumar commented: “I will not get involved in that matter. If it pertains to development, I’ll engage... otherwise, I will refrain.”

On the topic of whether MLA S.T. Somashekar is joining Congress, he replied: “Let that matter rest. He is fulfilling his responsibilities as an MLA — that is sufficient.”

Discussing his “Bengaluru Walk” initiative, he stated: “This area was developed around 25 years ago. Presently, congestion has escalated, and the majority of residents belong to the middle class. There are numerous fundamental infrastructure challenges here. Many individuals approached me to share their concerns. I plan to return on another occasion to devote more time to them,” he noted.

“Hundreds of local residents have come forward to express their grievances, and I will revisit to address their issues,” he affirmed.

The areas in question were established 15 to 20 years ago, and they are under significant pressure as they primarily house middle-class families. New residents are continually moving in, and the proximity to Kempegowda Layout exacerbates the infrastructure issues, which Shivakumar has taken into account.