Siddaramaiah Claims No Invite to Bridge Event; Gadkari Counters
Karnataka CM boycotts Sigandur bridge inauguration in protest, says protocol was violated; Gadkari posts proof of invite
Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Monday skipped the inauguration of a cable-stayed bridge across the Sharavathi River in Sagara taluk of Shivamogga district, citing a lack of timely intimation. He said the official invitation was received only three days before the event.
Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari inaugurated the bridge at the function held in Sagara. In a post on social media, Siddaramaiah conveyed his displeasure to Gadkari, stating: “I wish to place on record that neither I nor my office was consulted before your Ministry finalized the programme and publicly circulated the invitation with my name printed on it.”
He further noted, “In fact, the official invitation was received only on July 11.” Terming the communication inadequate, the chief minister remarked, “A communication sent just three days in advance, after public invitations have been issued, cannot be construed as due consultation or coordination.”
Calling for adherence to federal norms, Siddaramaiah told Gadkari: “True cooperative federalism demands meaningful engagement with state governments before finalising public programmes of such importance.” He concluded by expressing hope that “future engagements will reflect proper consultation, coordination, and mutual respect between the Centre and the States.”
