BJP criticizes greater Bengaluru governance act, pledges to restore ‘One Bengaluru’ system

BJP leaders have voiced strong opposition to the Greater Bengaluru Governance Act, claiming it destabilizes the vision of Bengaluru’s founder, Kempe Gowda, who advocated for a unified city structure. They assert that, once back in power, the BJP will restore the model of a single corporation with one mayor for the city. Union Minister of State for Railways and Jala Shakti, V. Somanna, accused the Congress government of attempting to delay BBMP elections with the introduction of this Act.

“Since this government took office, Bengaluru has seen no significant development, and basic issues like potholes remain unresolved,” he said, predicting a BJP victory in the upcoming assembly polls and promising to hold BBMP elections thereafter. Former Minister and Mahalakshmi Layout MLA, K. Gopalaiah, raised concerns about water scarcity in newly added areas, stressing that the government has failed to provide essential services like water and sanitation to 110 villages included in BBMP in 2008.

Gopalaiah also warned that the proposed three-corporation system would lead to developmental imbalance across the city. He criticized the Congress government’s move, stating that it goes against Kempe Gowda’s original vision for Bengaluru. BJP MLA from Dasarahalli, S. Muniraju, emphasized the party’s commitment to a unified city structure.

He argued that a multiple-corporation model, similar to those in Mumbai and Delhi, has failed and could lead to complications in Bengaluru. Bengaluru Central MP, P.C. Mohan, further criticized the Congress’s approach, suggesting it worsens the city’s ongoing administrative issues and delays the much-needed BBMP elections.