Bengaluru, Aug 4 (NationPress) The Karnataka BJP has accused the Congress-led state government of plotting to rename the reservoir after the former Mysuru monarch Tipu Sultan.

This statement follows a controversial remark made by a Karnataka Minister concerning the KRS dam.

H.C. Mahadevappa, the Minister for Social Welfare and a close ally of Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, claimed that Tipu Sultan was the first to lay the foundation stone for the dam, a statement that sparked significant backlash.

Opposition Leader R. Ashoka remarked, "Whenever 'Kannambadi Katte' is mentioned, the name of King Nalwadi Krishnaraja Wadiyar is instantly recalled. This is why the dam is named 'Krishna Raja Sagara' (KRS) in honor of him. However, it seems the Congress-led Karnataka government is orchestrating a strategy to rename the KRS reservoir after Tipu Sultan."

"Tipu Sultan, labeled as a religious fanatic and a traitor, passed away in 1799, while the KRS (Krishna Raja Sagara) dam, affectionately referred to as 'Kannambadi Katte' by Mysore's rural populace, commenced construction in 1911—over a century after Tipu's demise," Ashoka added.

"Minister H.C. Mahadevappa, what possible connection could there be between a dam project that began over a century post-Tipu Sultan's death and the man himself? Your naïve assertion is akin to questioning the relationship between a Hindu festival and an Imam Saheb," he stated, referencing a Kannada proverb. Historical records show that the British provincial government in Madras sanctioned only an 80-foot dam. However, the Maharajas envisioned a 124-foot-high dam, with initial costs estimated at Rs 2.35 crore—a sum too hefty for the state’s revenues alone," he recounted.

"At that time, Krishnaraja Wadiyar and the Queen Mother made a remarkable decision. They took four sacks filled with diamonds, emeralds, gold, and silver from the royal treasury to Mumbai, sold the valuables, and utilized the funds to construct the Kannambadi dam," Ashoka explained.

"Recently, CM Siddaramaiah’s son, Congress MLC Yathindra, insulted Nalwadi Krishnaraja Wadiyar by claiming his father (Siddaramaiah) was superior to him. Now, Minister Mahadevappa has further insulted Nalwadi Krishnaraja Wadiyar by asserting that Tipu Sultan, a religious zealot, laid the dam's foundation," he emphasized.

As Ashoka observed the pattern of statements from Siddaramaiah’s circle, he suggested there is a systematic effort to tarnish the legacy of the Mysore royal family and disgrace their esteemed name.

"Nalwadi Krishnaraja Wadiyar is historically acknowledged as the principal architect of modern Mysore and is cherished by the people of Mysuru. He had a profound concern for the underprivileged, Dalits, and the impoverished. Farmers regarded him as their benefactor and provider," he stated.

Ashoka cautioned that attempting to tarnish the legacy of such a prominent figure serves no beneficial purpose. "Those who have clashed with the Mysore royal family have never triumphed. Congress leaders should bear this in mind. If they persist in dragging the royal family’s name into their trivial politics and insulting their legacy, the people of this land will not stand for it, and the Karnataka BJP will not remain silent. Consider this a warning," Ashoka asserted.

BJP state President and MLA B.Y. Vijayendra commented, "From the outset, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has shown contempt for the royal family. Just recently, MLC Yathindra claimed that Siddaramaiah’s father surpassed Nalwadi Krishnaraja Wadiyar. Now, Minister H.C. Mahadevappa, a close follower of the Chief Minister, has belittled the sacrifices and efforts behind the KRS dam (Kannambadi Dam) by suggesting Tipu Sultan laid its foundation."

"The Kannambadi Dam (Krishnaraja Sagara) has a rich history defined by sacrifice and pride. Historical documentation confirms that the dam’s construction was the result of Nalwadi Krishnaraja Wadiyar’s vision and relentless pursuit. The original plan, devised in 1908, underwent revisions and was implemented after overcoming numerous challenges and humiliations under British rule. Every step in this journey is meticulously recorded and preserved to this day," Vijayendra articulated.

The project officially commenced in 1911 and reached completion in 1932. When financial obstacles arose, Nalwadi’s mother, Vani Vilasa Sannidhana (Kemparajammanni), and his wife, Krishnavilasa Sannidhana, exhibited remarkable sacrifice. They deemed the completion of a project that would nourish millions more valuable than the jewels in the royal treasury. By selling their own ornaments, they contributed to the construction of the Kannambadi Dam—a poignant tale of sacrifice that resonates in every household of the former Mysore kingdom, he remarked.

"Accompanied by Sir M. Visvesvaraya’s diligent oversight, countless dignitaries contributed their efforts to this historic initiative. It is precisely because of such monumental service to society, including this dam and numerous other public welfare projects, that Mahatma Gandhi conferred upon Nalwadi Krishnaraja Wadiyar the title of 'Rajarshi'. Therefore, the dam was named in his honor," Vijayendra stated.

"Respected H.C. Mahadevappa, if you possess any evidence that Tipu Sultan attempted to construct the KRS dam, please present it. We are prepared to release every documented detail regarding the dam's construction. If you have any proof of Tipu’s contributions in this matter, please share it," Vijayendra challenged.

He pointed out that Tipu Sultan died in 1799, while the dam project began in 1908—a gap exceeding a century. "Please refrain from distorting history and insulting documented facts. The Mysore royal family, particularly Nalwadi Krishnaraja Wadiyar, garnered global respect through their exceptional governance. If possible, cherish that legacy instead of disparaging it and inviting public scorn," he criticized.

"The people of this land are already aware that your agenda is to exalt Tipu Sultan’s legacy to consolidate the Muslim vote bank," he remarked.