Controversy Erupts Over Bidadi Township Land Acquisition

Former PM H D Deve Gowda criticizes the Karnataka government for alleged land grabs linked to the Bidadi Township project. He targets Deputy CM D K Shivakumar, scrutinizing the project's impact on local farmers. Gowda calls for its withdrawal, citing strong public opposition and potential injustice to agricultural communities.

Former Prime Minister H D Deve Gowda has vocally opposed the Karnataka government's Bidadi Township project, accusing it of land grabs under the guise of urban development. The JD(S) leader's strong comments target Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar, who handles Bengaluru's development, although he does not mention him by name.

Gowda alleges that the greater Bengaluru project, approved in an April cabinet meeting, affects over 7,000 acres, impacting local farmers who are already protesting the acquisition. The project is described as threatening agricultural livelihoods in the region, particularly in dairy farming and horticulture.

In a direct address to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, Gowda urges reconsideration, appealing to stop the township project due to public disapproval. He demands transparency on land ownership and accuses the administration of yielding to business interests over people's welfare.