Bengaluru, Feb 18 (NationPress) The ongoing conflict over garbage disposal in Bengaluru has intensified as the BJP and Congress exchange heated remarks. BJP state president and MLA B.Y. Vijayendra firmly stated that there is no reason to be concerned about what he called “empty threats” from Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar.

In response to Shivakumar's threats of action against BJP leaders allegedly obstructing garbage trucks from entering specific areas, Vijayendra emphasized that the BJP will not bow down to intimidation.

While addressing reporters in Bengaluru, he asserted that the duty of managing waste falls on the state government and urged Shivakumar, who is also responsible for Bengaluru Development, to prioritize resolving the city's civic challenges.

“There is no reason to be intimidated by these empty threats. Managing garbage is the responsibility of the state government, and instead of threatening, it should focus on solving the problem,” Vijayendra remarked.

He criticized the government for diverting attention to comparisons with international cities like Singapore and Dubai, or suggesting tunnel road projects, arguing that the focus should be on fundamental civic issues like potholes and waste management.

Vijayendra also accused the government of intimidating apartment associations and stressed that elected officials have the right to voice concerns affecting their communities. He called on the government to concentrate on finding solutions to Bengaluru's civic problems.

Meanwhile, BJP MLA from Doddaballapura, Dheeraj Muniraju, objected to Shivakumar's comments and urged him not to insult elected officials or the residents of his constituency.

During a press briefing at the BJP state office, Jagannath Bhavan, he expressed his opposition to waste dumping in his area due to environmental and public health concerns.

He stated that he does not require any financial aid or garbage from the government and questioned why the residents of Bengaluru Rural district should bear the waste burden generated in the city.

Muniraju alleged that improper dumping methods could result in air and water pollution and claimed that waste exceeding the allowed limit was being transported to his region.

He challenged the government to take action if it plans to invoke the Essential Services Maintenance Act (ESMA) against him, insisting he will continue to oppose waste dumping for the well-being of his constituents.

He added that protests against garbage dumping will escalate, with the support of farmers, local residents, and public representatives.

Earlier, Shivakumar had criticized BJP MLAs for allegedly blocking garbage trucks and warned of invoking the ESMA to ensure uninterrupted civic services. He accused opposition members of obstructing waste disposal and employing political tactics.

This exchange highlights the escalating political tensions between the ruling Congress government and the BJP regarding waste management in Bengaluru.