Bengaluru: With Assembly election slated for next year, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has already entered the campaign mode. While inaugurating various developmental works at Mahalakshmi Layout assembly constituency on Tuesday, he launched a frontal attack on BJP, accusing it of spreading lies to regain power.
Mr Siddaramaiah said, "BJP was in power both in the state and BBMP. When they were in power, they did not address any issues, be it garbage or storm water drain works. As a result the city is facing frequent floods. But now they are talking about development and spreading lies. This is nothing but ghost talking about Bhagavat Geetha."
Mr Siddaramaiah laid foundation stones for projects worth Rs 12.71 crore, which includes developing Kempegowda Park, construction of an indoor stadium and a Bangalore One centre. Almost all top Congress leaders, including Bengaluru development minister K.J. George, Home Minister Ramalinga Reddy, Transport Minister H.M. Revanna and others were present.
During his speech the Chief Minister said his government had improved the lot of pourakarmikas by organizing programmes such as hot meals, hiking their salary and initiating the process of regularising those on contract.
The Chief Minister, however, maintained that this was not the right platform to discuss politics and said he will be back for a political speech.
A short video to laud Mr Siddaramaiah and his Congress led government was played during the function. The area got littered with flex banners.
JDS MLA embarrassed
The JD (S) MLA from Mahalakshmi Layout constituency, Gopalaiah, who as per protocol was provided a seat on the dais, was embarrassed when Siddramaiah said "We have joined hands with JD (S) only in BBMP. But in the run up to the assembly elections it will be only Congress party and I shall be the Chief Minister for the next five years."
