Mysuru, (Karnataka) Jan 4 (NationPress) The ongoing debate regarding the suggestion to name a road after Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has elicited strong criticism from Union Minister for Heavy Industries and Steel, H.D. Kumaraswamy.

Kumaraswamy accused Siddaramaiah of intentionally maintaining silence on this matter. The Mysuru Urban Development Authority (MUDA) scam has Siddaramaiah as the primary accused, linked to the controversial acquisition of 3.16 acres of land in Kesare village by the CM's family. Allegations suggest that this land was illegally procured, resulting in MUDA allotting 14 sites as compensation in a high-value area.

While addressing the media prior to the DISHA meeting in Mysuru on Saturday, the Union Minister remarked, "Perhaps the Chief Minister aspires to have a road named after him. His strategic silence and mobilization of party workers indicate that,” he noted. “If he genuinely desires a tribute, he should consider Devanur or Kesarahalli, places where he claims to have made significant contributions,” Kumaraswamy quipped, alluding to the MUDA scam.

He further questioned the rationale behind the BJP's protests regarding the naming of a road after Siddaramaiah, stating, "Why protest in the sun? It’s clear that the CM himself is pushing this agenda. He was silent even during discussions about renaming Princess Road! If he is keen on having his name associated with something, he should think about Kesare village instead of erasing existing names that honor the Maharajas."

“During my time with the BJP, I contributed significantly to Mysuru. Let’s discuss what Siddaramaiah has accomplished as Deputy CM, opposition leader, and twice as CM,” Kumaraswamy challenged. Notably, Mysuru is Siddaramaiah's hometown.

“In 2006-2007, I allocated substantial funds to Mysuru, initiated multiple housing projects, and enhanced water management systems. Through the JnNURM scheme, I secured ₹2,000 crore in funding. Have I ever asked for roads or areas to be named after me? What truly counts is the fulfillment from one’s contributions, which is recognized in the hearts of the populace,” he asserted.

H.D. Kumaraswamy also criticized the Congress government for the 15 percent increase in RTC bus fares. “The consequences of this fare hike will be felt by the public, not the ministers. Why should they be concerned? They are plundering the people's resources and celebrating. The voters who supported them are now bearing the brunt. Both signatories of the five guarantees, including CM Siddaramaiah, had made promises to the public. I won’t mention the other signatory, but wasn’t Siddaramaiah regarded as a financial expert after Dr. Manmohan Singh?” Kumaraswamy probed.

“Instead of focusing on public welfare, this government prioritizes personal gains of ministers. People’s interests are secondary, and corruption is rampant. Even Ashraya housing projects for the underprivileged are not immune to this,” he alleged.

Addressing rumors regarding 'Operation Hasta', H.D. Kumaraswamy downplayed any concerns. “Our party has 18 MLAs, and they stand united. MLA Harish Gowda has echoed this sentiment, and our legislators recently convened in Belagavi. They will remain loyal to us,” he stated. When asked about any internal disagreements, Kumaraswamy likened them to domestic squabbles. “Differences, such as those between MLA G.T. Deve Gowda and others, are like the occasional disputes between spouses—resolved by bedtime. There is no discord within our party,” he affirmed.

Regarding the possibility of Nikhil Kumaraswamy becoming the state president of JD(S), Kumaraswamy clarified, “We have not engaged in any discussions on that front. Institutional elections will be conducted, and the president will be appointed through established protocols.”