Land Controversy: HD Deve Gowda Slams Congress in Karnataka

Former Prime Minister HD Deve Gowda criticizes the Karnataka Congress government over a controversial township project, alleging a land mafia operates under political backing. He expresses concern about governance and claims Deputy CM DK Shivakumar controls entities involved. Shivakumar counters, attributing criticism to political survival tactics.

In a heated political critique, HD Deve Gowda, the former Prime Minister and Janata Dal (Secular) National President, targeted the Congress-led government in Karnataka. He accused the administration of harboring a powerful 'land mafia' within the state, allegedly functioning with political support.

Deve Gowda's remarks focused heavily on the planned Bidadi integrated township project, a subject that has sparked considerable controversy. The JD(S) chief emotionally recalled his political roots in the region, lamenting alleged misuse of power in forming five corporations, which he suggested is politically motivated.

Indirectly targeting Karnataka Deputy CM DK Shivakumar, without mentioning his name, Gowda criticized the restructuring of regional development authorities. He noted that despite writing to top Congress leaders and the state's Chief Minister, governance is stymied by internal cabinet conflicts. In response, Deputy CM Shivakumar has hit back, defending the township initiative and framing Gowda's critique as a tactic for political longevity, all while tackling concerns from local farmers.