Karnataka Government Hindering Progress: Kumaraswamy
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Synopsis
Union Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy has accused the Karnataka government of obstructing his initiatives due to political hatred. He expressed concerns about job losses and the lack of support for industrial development in Mandya, advocating for cooperation to revive the state's industries.
Key Takeaways
- Kumaraswamy claims political animosity is hindering his work.
- Efforts to establish industries in Karnataka face state obstruction.
- Kudremukh Iron and Steel Company is crucial for local employment.
- Political collaboration is essential for job creation.
- Development initiatives are being politicized by the state government.
Mandya, April 7 (NationPress) Union Minister for Heavy Industries and Steel, H.D. Kumaraswamy, asserted on Monday that the Karnataka government is hindering his efforts at every turn due to political animosity and is preventing him from fulfilling his duties for the state.
“The residents of Mandya have chosen me as their MP. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has entrusted me with responsibilities in the heavy industries and steel sectors. I am diligently working to establish one or two industries in Mandya, Ramanagara, or Tumakuru districts. However, the state government is not backing me and is obstructing my efforts because of political animosity,” the Union Minister stated during the new idol installation and Kumbhabhisheka celebration of Lord Siddhi Vinayaka and Naga Devatas at Handanahalli village in Malavalli taluk, Mandya district.
He emphasized that the Kudremukh Iron and Steel Company is one of Karnataka's hallmark industries, featuring a significant plant on the coastline of Mangaluru.
“Since the cessation of mining operations at Kudremukh, thousands of local residents have lost their jobs,” he further asserted.
He noted that during Chief Siddaramaiah’s previous administration, funds were allocated and permissions were issued for mines in Sandur, Ballari, but mining activities never commenced, despite the receipt of crores in funding.
“Upon assuming the office of Union Steel Minister, officials brought this matter to my attention, highlighting the Karnataka state government's lack of cooperation,” he mentioned.
He added that Kudremukh Company requires financial resources to restart mining operations in Ballari.
“I sanctioned a proposal for Rs 1,700 crore in financial assistance and sent the file to the finance ministry with my signature - my first signature - in hopes of benefiting the state. However, due to political animosity directed at me, the state government obstructed this initiative. Approximately 2,000 employees at the Mangaluru facility lost their jobs,” he claimed.
He stated that in the interest of these workers and the state, he opted to merge Kudremukh with the National Mineral Development Corporation (NMDC).
“Likewise, in matters regarding HMT’s revival, the state government continues to engage in politics and obstructs advancement,” he further alleged.
Kumaraswamy referenced the example of the Visakhapatnam Steel Plant and commended leaders from Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.
“Leaders from those states, regardless of their political affiliations, come together to collaborate. Why is there no such commitment from our own state government? Who bears the responsibility if our youth are unable to secure employment?” he questioned.
He also accused the state government of even politicizing development.
“It fails to support or endorse the positive initiatives of political opponents. Under such circumstances, how can we expect industries to establish a presence in Karnataka?” he queried.
The event was honored by Sri Sri Sri Dr. Nirmalanandanatha Mahaswamiji of the Sri Adichunchanagiri Mahasamsthana, who bestowed his blessings.
Other notable attendees included Sri Sri Annadaneshwara Swamiji from Shivagiri of Ramanagara, former MLA K. Annadani, and community elders from the village.
