BENGALURU
Public Works Minister Satish Jarkiholi has expressed reservations about the proposed Bidadi Township project, stating that the government should ensure it is not burdened by any large-scale development scheme.
Speaking to reporters in Bengaluru on Tuesday, Jarkiholi said the project would be discussed in the Cabinet meeting scheduled for Saturday. While not opposing the proposal outright, he stressed the need for careful consideration of its financial and political implications.
“The construction of the township should not become a burden on the government. The government should not suffer because of any scheme. Such issues must be examined thoroughly,” he said.
Jarkiholi noted that the matter also has political significance and should be discussed in the broader interests of both the government and the ruling party. He added that the extent of public and political opposition to the project would also be reviewed.
Responding to the agitation led by Union Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy and former Prime Minister H.D. Deve Gowda against the township proposal, Jarkiholi said every political party has the right to raise issues it considers important.
“Whatever they choose to fight for is their party’s decision. It should ultimately be beneficial and not harmful. We will assess the level of opposition and discuss it in the Cabinet,” he said.
On the issue of Cabinet expansion, Jarkiholi reiterated his support for including Housing Minister B.Z. Zameer Ahmed Khan in the state’s top leadership structure. He said he had conveyed his views to Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar and argued that the Muslim community has been a strong supporter of the Congress.
“I have suggested that Zameer Ahmed and another leader from the community be given an opportunity. Earlier, two leaders were accommodated, and I believe representation can be increased to three,” he said.
His remarks come amid continuing political debate over the Bidadi Township project and speculation surrounding a possible Cabinet reshuffle or expansion.
