BENGALURU: Will chief minister Basavaraj Bommai assign Bengaluru development to one of the seven ministers from the city or will he take a cue from predecessor BS Yediyurappa and retain it?
It’s arguably the most prestigious ministry as it shapes the future of the capital. Seven ministers from the city are already staking claim to it, with three biggies — R Ashoka, CN Ashwath Narayan and V Somanna — leaving no stone unturned. Byrathi Basavaraj, ST Somashekar, K Gopalaiah and MTB Nagaraj are lobbying for it too.
There’s speculation that one of the top three contenders may be considered, as BBMP polls are imminent. Party insiders say since Bommai is keen on finance and water resources, he may have to appoint a dedicated minister for Bengaluru. However, he may retain Bengaluru development and not upset anyone as the party needs the support of all MLAs and ministers from Bengaluru to retain power. “Bommai wants control over Bengaluru because he wants to ensure satisfactory implementation of Bengaluru Mission project,’’ said a minister.
Many feel not having a dedicated Bengaluru development minister will prove harmful. Yediyurappa hadn’t appointed a dedicated minister when he took charge in 2019 because there were too many contenders. This didn’t sit well with BBMP and other agencies because they faced enormous challenges in planning and implementation. Multiple infrastructure projects, including Smart City, Metro rail, sub-urban rail, drinking water and ring road are going on with little political supervision, claim officials of BBMP and BWSSB.
“The chief minister is in charge of the whole state, and it’s difficult for him to give adequate attention to Bengaluru. A minister for the capital will solve one of the biggest problems — lack of coordination and integration between civic agencies and government. It will enable bold policies which require political approval,” said urban expert N Vijaykumar.
However, some insist the CM managing Bengaluru would help the city as all decisions regarding budgeting and execution can be taken quickly since he holds the finance portfolio too.
