Daijiworld Media Network - Mandya
Mandya, April 7: Union Minister for Heavy Industries and Steel, H D Kumaraswamy, on Monday accused the Karnataka government of obstructing his efforts to bring industrial development to the state due to "political hatred."
Addressing the new idol installation and Kumbhabhisheka celebration at the Lord Siddhi Vinayaka and Naga Devatas temple in Handanahalli village, Mandya district, Kumaraswamy said, "The people of Mandya elected me as their MP, and Prime Minister Modi has given me the responsibility for heavy industries and steel. Despite my efforts to bring industries to Mandya, Ramanagara, or Tumakuru, the state government is obstructing me at every step."
Kumaraswamy highlighted the issue of Kudremukh Iron and Steel Company, a significant industry in Karnataka with a plant on the Mangaluru coastline. He said the halt in mining operations at Kudremukh led to the loss of thousands of local jobs. He further accused the previous Siddaramaiah government of mishandling funds and permissions related to mining operations in Sandur, Ballari.
The Union Minister stated that, after taking office, he approved a proposal for Rs 1,700 crore in financial support to resume mining operations at Kudremukh but claimed that political opposition led to its obstruction. “Due to political hatred, the state government blocked it, causing the loss of jobs for 2,000 workers at the Mangaluru factory,” he added.
Kumaraswamy also claimed that the state government continues to politicise efforts related to the revival of HMT and other industrial developments. “In contrast, leaders from Andhra Pradesh and Telangana work together, regardless of their political affiliations, to bring about progress,” he noted, stressing the need for similar cooperation in Karnataka to attract industries and provide employment for the youth.
The event was attended by Sri Sri Sri Dr Nirmalanandanatha Mahaswamiji of the Sri Adichunchanagiri Mahasamsthana, along with other dignitaries such as Sri Sri Annadaneshwara Swamiji and former MLA K. Annadani.
Kumaraswamy concluded by questioning the state's commitment to development, asking, “How can industries be expected to come to Karnataka if the government doesn’t support the good initiatives of its political opponents?”