Daijiworld Media Network- Chamarajanagar

Chamarajanagar, Apr 24: Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D. K. Shivakumar on Thursday asserted that only the Congress government has worked towards the development of religious sites in the state. He made these remarks while interacting with the media after offering prayers at the Male Mahadeshwara temple in Chamarajanagar district, a prominent Hindu pilgrimage center.

Shivakumar pointed out that under the Congress administration, development authorities have been established for key religious sites, a step he claimed was not taken by the previous BJP and JD(S) governments. He highlighted the creation of the Saundatti Yellamma Development Authority and previously established authorities for Male Mahadeshwara and Chamundi Hills.
According to him, the transformation of the Male Mahadeshwara temple, both in terms of infrastructure and accessibility, is evident for all to see.

“We are not just focusing on the welfare of a single community but are striving for the development of all communities. Our focus is on providing devotees with a peaceful and conducive environment for prayer,” Shivakumar stated.

Further, Shivakumar discussed the Chamarajanagar district’s progress, saying the improvement of roads has significantly reduced travel times from villages to hilltops. He also revealed that elevated roads may be constructed as part of the Mekedatu project, aimed at enhancing access to the temple. He emphasized the importance of this development for the Cauvery river basin and the devotees crossing the river to visit the shrine annually.

The special Cabinet meeting held at Male Mahadeshwara Hill was a historic one, marking the first-ever meeting in the district since its formation 28 years ago. This initiative aims to drive major decisions to address the region’s development needs, especially as Chamarajanagar is considered one of Karnataka's most backward districts.