BJP MLC KS Naveen Kumar criticises ASI for neglect and slow progress

VIJAYANAGARA

BJP MLC KS Naveen Kumar strongly criticised the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) for its alleged indifference and lack of responsiveness to central directives. Speaking at a press conference highlighting the Modi government’s 11-year achievements, he accused the ASI—an autonomous body under the Ministry of Tourism—of stalling development efforts in key heritage areas.

He particularly cited Hampi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where promised progress in monument preservation and infrastructure upgrades has not materialised. “Even the construction of basic facilities like toilets is delayed. The ASI is not responding to any appeals,” he said, adding that similar negligence is seen in places like Chitradurga.

Naveen Kumar assured that the BJP will address these issues in the coming days, pushing for reforms to ensure faster development of protected sites.

Comparing government performance over the years, he said the NDA government (2014–2024) outperformed the UPA era (2004–2014) across key sectors. “Employment grew from 2 crore to 17 crore, inflation dropped from 8.2% to 5%, and extreme poverty reduced from 29.2% to 11.3%,” he stated.

He also highlighted the rise in income tax returns—from 3.9 crore to 9.2 crore—and rejected allegations of loan waivers for business tycoons. “No wealthy individual, including Vijay Mallya or Nirav Modi, had loans waived. Mallya himself said he repaid it,” he claimed.

Naveen Kumar lauded the Modi administration’s efforts in infrastructure, foreign investment, and women’s empowerment. Party leaders including S Sanjeev Reddy, Ayyali Thimmappa, KS Raghavendra, and others were present at the event.