Did K'taka CM Siddaramaiah Raise Concerns Over Sigandur Bridge Inauguration?
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Synopsis
Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has raised serious concerns about the inauguration of the Sigandur Bridge by Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, accusing the Centre of bypassing state protocols. This tension highlights the ongoing struggle between state and federal authorities in India, raising questions about federalism and cooperation.
Key Takeaways
- Siddaramaiah objected to the inauguration of the Sigandur Bridge.
- He emphasized the need for state consultation in federal projects.
- The event was held without proper notice to the state government.
- Concerns over federalism were raised in the letter to PM Modi.
- The Centre responded to the objections, claiming an invitation was sent.
Bengaluru, July 14 (NationPress) Karnataka's Chief Minister Siddaramaiah addressed a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday, expressing his discontent over the inauguration of the Sigandur Bridge by Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari. He emphasized that conducting any event in the state without prior consultation with the state government reflects sheer arbitrariness.
In his correspondence, CM Siddaramaiah articulated: "In my sincere opinion, executing any programme in the state without the involvement of the state government, and the breach of protocol in the invitation by placing the name of the ex-CM above that of the Deputy CM, Speaker of the Assembly, and Chairman of the Council, while proceeding with the event despite the state government's clear disagreement, exemplifies utter arbitrariness and contradicts the very essence of federalism, which has always guided the relationship between the Centre and states in accordance with our Constitution."
The Chief Minister formally registered Karnataka's protest against such non-cooperative behavior. "I trust that all central ministers will be firmly advised to avoid such discordant actions in the future," stated CM Siddaramaiah.
Providing insights into the event, he noted: "The foundation laying ceremony for nine National Highway Projects, spanning a total of 88 kilometers and involving an investment exceeding Rs 2,000 crore, took place on July 14 in Shivamogga district."
CM Siddaramaiah added, "Upon learning of this function through external sources, I personally communicated and wrote to the Union Minister on July 11, requesting a postponement of the programme. The event in Sagara taluk of Shivamogga was organized without consulting the state government, and my name was included in the invitation without prior notice. Although the Union Minister agreed to defer the event, to our disappointment, it proceeded as planned."
He further remarked, "The construction of the significant bridge across the Sharavathi backwaters and the connecting roads between Ambargodu and Kalasavalli was initially conceived by the state government in 2013 and later executed by the Government of India."
According to the technical report, the project works are still incomplete, and thus, the event should not have been hurried, CM underscored.
In response to CM Siddaramaiah's concerns regarding his exclusion from the invitation to the inauguration of the Sigandur cable bridge project, the Centre clarified that the Chief Minister was indeed invited to the event on June 11 and was requested to preside over the programme.
Union Minister Nitin Gadkari took to social media platform X on Monday, stating, "A significant move towards enhancing regional connectivity, the inauguration and foundation stone laying ceremony for multiple vital infrastructure projects is taking place today in Shivamogga, Karnataka."
He added, "An official invitation was duly sent to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on July 11, inviting him to lead the programme. To accommodate any potential scheduling conflicts, a follow-up letter was dispatched on July 12, requesting his virtual presence," Gadkari mentioned.
Point of View
This incident underscores the delicate balance between state and central authority in India. The Chief Minister's objections reflect a broader concern about federalism and collaboration, which are vital for the effective governance of our diverse nation. It is imperative that both levels of government work together to ensure progress without undermining each other's authority.
NationPress
14/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the main concern of CM Siddaramaiah?
CM Siddaramaiah's primary concern was that the inauguration of the Sigandur Bridge by Union Minister Nitin Gadkari was conducted without consulting the Karnataka state government, which he deemed arbitrary.
What did the Chief Minister request in his letter?
In his letter, the Chief Minister requested that all central ministers be advised to refrain from organizing events in the state without prior consultation with the state government.
What is the significance of the Sigandur Bridge?
The Sigandur Bridge is significant as it represents a major infrastructure development project aimed at enhancing connectivity in the region.
What was the response from the Centre regarding the concerns?
The Centre clarified that Chief Minister Siddaramaiah was invited to the event and was asked to preside over the program.
How does this incident reflect on federalism in India?
This incident highlights the ongoing tensions between state and central governments in India, raising important questions about the collaborative efforts required for effective governance.
