Blurb: Chief Minister Siddaramaiah criticized the central government for failing to issue a notification to increase the height of the Almatti dam, while campaigning for the by-election in Bagalkot district.
Bagalkot
Amid ongoing political campaigning in Bagalkot, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah launched a strong attack on the central government over the delay in increasing the height of the Almatti dam. He stated that it has been thirteen years since the Narendra Modi-led NDA government came to power at the Centre, yet no official gazette notification has been issued in this regard.
The Chief Minister alleged that the continued delay reflects a lack of political will on the part of the central government to address the issue, which is crucial for irrigation and water management in the region. He emphasized that increasing the height of the Almatti dam would significantly benefit farmers and improve water availability across several districts in North Karnataka.
Echoing similar sentiments, Congress candidate Umesh Meti urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to immediately issue the necessary notification to facilitate the project. He stressed that the development is vital for the agricultural community and should not be delayed further due to administrative or political reasons.
Siddaramaiah, who had earlier contested from the Badami constituency in the same district, is currently campaigning in Bagalkot for the upcoming by-election. During his visit, he received a warm welcome from local residents in several villages. In some places, supporters greeted him with flowers, while in Navanagali village, women welcomed him with traditional rituals, holding decorated plates as a mark of respect.
The Chief Minister was seen interacting with the public, smiling and acknowledging greetings with folded hands as he moved through the villages. His visit has generated significant political activity in the region, with both ruling and opposition parties intensifying their campaigns.
The Almatti dam issue remains a key topic in the election discourse, with leaders using it to highlight concerns over development and governance. As the by-election approaches, such issues are expected to play a crucial role in shaping voter sentiment.
