Is the Mysuru convention a display of strength? K'taka CM Siddaramaiah clarifies

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Mysuru convention is focused on showcasing developmental projects.
- CM Siddaramaiah emphasizes transparency in governance.
- Upcoming projects worth Rs 2,600 crore to be launched.
- BJP's criticisms are challenged by Siddaramaiah.
- Congress aims to reinforce its support base in urban areas.
Mysuru, July 18 (NationPress) Chief Minister Siddaramaiah stated on Friday that the BJP is disseminating misleading information about his administration. He clarified that the convention in Mysuru is designed to showcase the pro-people initiatives launched by the Congress government.
He emphasized, “This is not an event intended to demonstrate anyone's strength,” he asserted.
While addressing the media at the Mysuru airport, CM Siddaramaiah elaborated on various topics, including the BJP's critiques of the forthcoming convention in Mysuru. The BJP alleges that this event is a tactic by CM Siddaramaiah to manipulate the Congress high command into ensuring his continued leadership in the state.
In response to the BJP's allegations and media inquiries, he reiterated that the event is not about showcasing individual strength but rather a platform to communicate the achievements of the Congress-led government in Karnataka.
“Tomorrow (July 19), we will launch development projects worth approximately Rs 2,600 crore in Mysuru. What substantial development has the BJP accomplished?” he challenged.
When questioned about the comments made by his close associate, Minister K.N. Rajanna, regarding the so-called September revolution in state politics, CM Siddaramaiah suggested that the media should direct such inquiries to him.
Addressing concerns regarding Congress' support among urban voters, the Chief Minister responded, “Congress has successfully secured victories in two constituencies in Mysuru district and won three Assembly bypolls in Bengaluru city. We have triumphed in 16 out of 28 Assembly seats in Bengaluru city. Tomorrow’s event is focused on development, not individual displays of strength.”
On the matter of extending the tenure of the Krishna Water Disputes Tribunal, the Chief Minister indicated that he had no objections to the extension. However, he pointed out that the Central government has yet to issue a notification on water sharing, which has placed a burden on the state.
“There is an interstate conflict involving Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. In our state’s situation, the Centre has no barriers to issuing a notification based on the verdict. Karnataka will not suffer any detriment in the water-sharing arrangement. Approval has already been given to increase the height of the Almatti reservoir to 524.26 meters,” he added.
Regarding inquiries into the report from the commission investigating the stampede during the RCB victory celebration in Bengaluru, CM Siddaramaiah stated that the report will be reviewed in the next cabinet meeting, and appropriate actions will be decided.
In response to the BJP's proposal for Congress to nominate AICC President Mallikarjun Kharge as its Prime Ministerial candidate, CM Siddaramaiah challenged, “If the BJP genuinely believes that, let their state president, Vijayendra, first appoint someone from a Scheduled Caste to his position, and let the BJP nominate a Scheduled Caste leader as the Prime Minister of the country.”
He asserted that it is the Congress party, not the BJP, that truly advocates for constitutional and social justice.