Kalaburagi, Jan 12 (NationPress) Emphasizing the significant regional inequality between northern and southern Karnataka, AICC President Mallikarjun Kharge on Monday urged Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister and state Congress President D.K. Shivakumar to facilitate Mysuru-like development in the Kalaburagi area.

Kharge, a native of Kalaburagi, was speaking to a large audience in Jevargi town within the Kalaburagi district.

Referring to a previous remark by Deputy CM Shivakumar expressing a wish to have been born in the region, Kharge stated: “Following the enactment of special status (Article 371J), financial resources are now being allocated to this area. While Shivakumar has expressed a desire to have his roots here, it is irrelevant where we were born. What we seek is this: just like Mysuru and your constituencies, ensure that our region receives equal development.”

“We do not aspire for Kalaburagi to transform into London, Singapore, or America. Our objective is to attain a similar standard of development as seen in Mysuru and your regions. This must occur here as well. Due to long-standing neglect, no one advocated for such legislation in the past. I pushed and campaigned tirelessly. Even without a majority, I engaged with the public, gained support, and ensured this law was enacted,” he emphasized.

Kharge asserted that the implementation of the special status law must prioritize this region in development initiatives.

“Typically, the benefits are predominantly allocated to Mysuru and Bengaluru regions. Residents of this area remain in anticipation. This practice needs to cease, and the focus must shift to the people here,” he remarked.

“I implore you once more, Mr. Shivakumar, birthplace is not the issue. However, for every project approved for Mysuru, your constituency, or Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s, ensure that at least 75 percent of that level of work is executed here. Only then will the people experience prosperity and tranquility. Our children continue to migrate to Bengaluru for their education,” he added.

Kharge further noted: “Chief Minister Siddaramaiah is a product of a Kannada medium school, having risen to the position of Chief Minister twice. Meanwhile, the Deputy CM has a background in both Kannada and English education from convent schools. It is now time to redirect your focus here. Failure to do so will lead to complications. I am here not to incite unrest but to represent the people’s voice.”

Earlier, Deputy CM D.K. Shivakumar expressed gratitude to the audience, stating: “We have allocated Rs 1,000 crore for Jevargi in the Kalaburagi district. In the entire Kalyana Karnataka region, you have granted the Congress the highest number of seats in both legislative and parliamentary elections. Your support has strengthened the Congress party, and we are here to convey our appreciation.”

“Significant funds have been allocated for this area, and I mentioned my desire to have been born here. In my own constituency, substantial funding is not sanctioned. Even as Deputy Chief Minister, it is challenging to obtain such large allocations and organize such programs,” Shivakumar stated.