Bengaluru, July 29 (NationPress) Karnataka's Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar commented on being excluded from Chief Minister Siddaramaiah's individual discussions with MLAs, asserting that there is nothing inappropriate about the CM engaging with the lawmakers.

While addressing the media, Shivakumar stated: "CM Siddaramaiah possesses the right to hold meetings with MLAs. After meeting with the MLAs, Randeep Singh Surjewala, our party's state in charge, highlighted numerous matters for the CM's consideration, leading to the CM calling a meeting. What is wrong with that?"

When questioned about his absence as the state's Congress chief and Deputy CM, he queried: "Why has this become such a significant matter? There’s no need for a debate over it. A separate meeting for Bengaluru will be arranged. I have already discussed this with the CM, as Bengaluru needs additional support."

"Today, the Honourable CM is meeting party legislators. Our party’s national General Secretary has consulted all MLAs individually and collected their feedback, which has been presented to the CM for discussion. Regarding Bengaluru, we have a distinct agenda that will be addressed later. I have also conversed with the Bengaluru MLAs. Let's allow the meeting with rural MLAs to finish first," he elaborated.

"I am holding a separate meeting today to prepare an affidavit for the court concerning the elections. The Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA) has been established, and we have already spoken with members of the opposition party, who have consented. Others can continue with their meetings, and I do not oppose it. In the state's interest, we have segmented Bengaluru for improved governance, and even their opinions have been considered," he added.

"Some individuals are dissatisfied. We must take into account geography, administration, and finances. We also plan to expand Bengaluru in the future," Shivakumar mentioned.

"We have decided to divide Bengaluru for the city's best interests, considering everyone's concerns," he reiterated.

On the issue of fertiliser shortages, Shivakumar remarked: "The BJP MPs have finally acknowledged their fault and must ensure fertiliser availability. Farmers are requesting more fertiliser, and they should receive immediate assistance."

In response to the BJP's protests regarding the situation, he stated: "BJP leaders ought to protest against their own Union Agriculture and Fertiliser Ministers. Why target us? We don’t produce fertilisers. We merely distribute what the Centre allocates."

"If there are any distribution discrepancies, records are available. District-wise data on fertiliser distribution can be verified. We are committed to assisting farmers, unlike when their government was in power and failed to deliver fertilisers, leading to violence against farmers. We have never resorted to such actions," Shivakumar concluded.