Bengaluru, Aug 11 (NationPress) Karnataka's Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar emphasized on Monday that Prime Minister Narendra Modi recognizes the vital significance of Bengaluru and has guaranteed him full support.

In response to a media inquiry regarding his recent interactions with PM Modi during the latter's visit to Bengaluru on Sunday, Shivakumar stated, “It is clear that Prime Minister Narendra Modi understands the significance of Bengaluru. He acknowledged that Bengaluru serves as a window to the world and made a statement reflecting this. I do not claim that this is solely our government's achievement; all past administrations have played a part in this development.”

“We are in desperate need of funds. There are several BJP leaders who are like empty vessels — I prefer not to name them — yet they are the loudest. In this light, I am providing them with details and urging them to voice their concerns in Parliament, approach PM Modi, and secure at least Rs 10 for our state,” he remarked critically.

“None of them seem to care about bringing even a single rupee in funds to our state or meeting the Prime Minister. Even Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, who represents Karnataka in the Rajya Sabha, has not delivered any financial support to the state. They have contributed nothing to assist Karnataka,” Shivakumar asserted.

“During this time, I presented the state's requests to the Prime Minister and asked him to consider them. PM Modi assured me that he would look into these matters. I feel optimistic because, from his remarks, it is clear he recognizes Bengaluru as a global city. He also stated that Bengaluru embodies India. I made all the necessary submissions,” Shivakumar reiterated.

“I was scheduled to give the welcome address yesterday, but it was cancelled. As the Minister for Bengaluru Development, I directly addressed Prime Minister Modi and he assured me he would review our concerns,” he added.

The friendly exchange between Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar with Prime Minister Modi during his visit to Bengaluru drew public attention and surprised many, given that CM Siddaramaiah and Dy CM Shivakumar are known for their sharp criticisms of PM Modi.

The interaction began with Chief Minister Siddaramaiah warmly welcoming Prime Minister Modi with a bouquet and exchanging friendly remarks. At the inauguration of the Yellow Line Metro services at R.V. Road (Ragigudda) Metro Station, Deputy Chief Minister Shivakumar took the initiative to show PM Modi the new station and provided insights about the project.

Throughout the event, Shivakumar and Siddaramaiah were seen closely engaging with Prime Minister Modi. When the Prime Minister took a ride on the newly inaugurated 19.15-km Yellow Line Metro from R.V. Road to Bommanahalli Metro Station, the leaders appeared to enjoy the journey, engaging in pleasant conversation.

CM Siddaramaiah and Dy CM Shivakumar sat beside Prime Minister Modi, maintaining a lively dialogue. Dy CM Shivakumar was observed pointing out various aspects from the Metro train’s window and explaining details to the Prime Minister.

Both CM Siddaramaiah and Dy CM Shivakumar were also seen sharing cheerful laughter with PM Modi during the ride. This unexpected development captured the public’s interest, and photos and videos of their interaction have become widely shared on social media.