The Karnataka government marked the 10th anniversary of special status being granted to the Kalyana Karnataka region under Article 371(J) with the Kalyana Karnataka Amrut Mahotsav in Kalaburagi. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah hoisted the national flag during a special event at the Police Parade Ground and chaired a Cabinet meeting in Kalaburagi, an occurrence the Congress government has described as historic. The meeting is expected to bring announcements of special packages and projects aimed at developing the region.
Addressing the gathering, CM Siddaramaiah outlined plans to transform Kalaburagi City into a smart city with an investment of Rs 1,685 crore, aimed at improving the quality of life for residents and drawing investments to the area's backward districts.
Siddaramaiah emphasised the region's historical significance, recalling that districts like Bidar, Kalaburagi, and Raichur joined India a year after the country's independence due to the efforts of freedom fighters and leaders like Jawaharlal Nehru and Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. Siddaramaiah also highlighted the region's historical commitment to social justice, citing the Sharana movement that began in Basavakalyan as an inspiration for equality and social justice.
However, the celebrations have been met with criticism from the opposition BJP, which has labeled the event as a "publicity stunt."
BJP Labels Event As 'Publicity Stunt'
Leader of Opposition R. Ashoka took to social media to accuse the Congress government of betraying the people of Kalyana Karnataka. He questioned whether the funds allocated for the development of the region had been used appropriately or diverted for other purposes, such as the Telangana election campaigns. Ashoka challenged the government to provide details on the implementation of promises made in their manifesto, specifically questioning the allocation and utilization of the Rs 5,000 crore promised annually for Kalyana Karnataka's development.
Ashoka also pointed out unfulfilled promises, such as the establishment of a Rs 5,000 crore apparel park in Ballari and Rahul Gandhi's pledge to make Ballari the "jeans capital" during his campaign speech. The BJP's criticism highlights ongoing political contention in the state, with the opposition demanding accountability from the Congress government on its development promises for the region.