tumakuru renaming sparks controversy: "Bengaluru North" proposal faces strong opposition

Tumakuru,  : Hot on the heels of Ramnagar district being recently renamed "Bengaluru South" by Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, Home Minister G. Parameshwara has put forth a proposal to rename Tumakuru district as "Bengaluru North." However, this suggestion has met with significant opposition in Tumakuru.

District in-charge Minister Dr. G. Parameshwara had earlier stated to the media that Tumakuru, known as "Kalpataru Nadu," should be renamed "Bengaluru North." This statement from the Home Minister has drawn sharp criticism, with Tumakuru Rural MLA Suresh Gowda alleging it's a move by the real estate mafia.

"We will not allow Tumakuru to be renamed Bengaluru North," Suresh Gowda asserted, expressing his anger against the state government. "I don't know if they are deceiving the people of Tumakuru or pulling the wool over their eyes. Simply calling it Bengaluru North won't bring development; only the name will change. Tumakuru has its own rich history. Renaming Tumakuru as Bengaluru North is not right," he fumed.

Gowda further argued that industries are already moving to neighboring states due to a lack of available land here. He emphasized that people aren't foolish enough to invest just because the name changes to "Bengaluru North." Several activists in Tumakuru have also opposed the proposal, stating, "Instead of adding Tumakuru to 'Brand Bengaluru,' brand Tumakuru itself. This decision is unacceptable under any circumstances, and we oppose it."

Responding to the Home Minister's comment that "Bengaluru North" would make a big difference to those abroad compared to Tumakuru, MLA Suresh Gowda retorted, "Then rename the entire Karnataka as Bengaluru and declare it. If the name of Karnataka itself is changed, everything will become Bengaluru."