Political Clash Erupts Over Siddaramaiah’s ‘Greater Bengaluru Governance Bill’
Bengaluru, 24th July 2024: To enhance the reputation of Brand Bengaluru, which has struggled in recent years, the Siddaramaiah-led Congress government in Karnataka has introduced the ‘Greater Bengaluru Governance Bill 2024.’ This bill aims to improve governance, increase political accountability, and elevate the quality of life in the city.
The proposal has ignited a political conflict between the Congress and the Opposition Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). The BJP has criticized the bill, alleging that decisions affecting Bengaluru are being made by individuals outside the city with intentions to exploit and degrade it.
Previous attempts to address Bengaluru’s issues through legislative measures, including increasing the number of municipal wards from 198 to 245, have resulted in minimal improvements. Critics argue that this new bill is another delay tactic for the overdue city civic body elections, which have been pending since 2020. Despite Bengaluru’s status as a global city and IT hub, it has faced serious problems like encroachments, pollution, and poor infrastructure due to ineffective management.
Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, who oversees Bengaluru, stated that the Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA) will safeguard the city’s interests. He explained that the bill aims to create a “decentralized, participative, efficient, and fair governance system for Bengaluru.”
Government’s Perspective
Congress leaders described the bill as a major reform intended to handle Bengaluru’s rapid urban growth and manage infrastructure complexities. Shivakumar defended the bill, noting that while he considered restructuring Bengaluru like London, he opted for modifications to the existing system instead. The bill proposes dividing the city into up to ten zones and restructuring the city’s administration, addressing previous shortcomings in managing multiple civic agencies.
The bill diverges from the Brand Bengaluru Committee’s report, which recommended a specific area for the GBA. Instead, the new proposal does not specify the coverage area, creating uncertainty about the number of corporations and their jurisdictions.
The bill aims to streamline political accountability and integrate services across the Greater Bengaluru Area. A meeting with Bengaluru Congress MLAs and representatives is scheduled for July 27 to discuss and refine the bill.
Opposition’s Response
Opposition leaders, including R. Ashok, Suresh Kumar, and Dr. C.N. Aswath Narayan, have criticized the bill as a product of a “failed government” incapable of managing Bengaluru’s problems. They argue that the Congress government, led by Shivakumar, is mismanaging critical issues such as healthcare, infrastructure, and waste management. They also accuse the government of focusing on personal and political gains rather than addressing real issues.
Shivakumar defended the bill, stating it was discussed thoroughly in the cabinet and was open to input from Opposition leaders. He emphasized that the GBA would oversee major infrastructure projects, road construction, storm-water drainage, and waste management, deviating from the Brand Bengaluru Committee’s recommendations.
Greater Bengaluru Security Force
Financial Responsibilities:
– The GBA will receive a share of the revenue from City Corporations and approve tax rates and schemes.
– It will recommend new revenue streams and asset management strategies.
Administrative Responsibilities:
– The GBA will coordinate and oversee major projects, including infrastructural development across multiple City Corporations.
– It will manage information systems and technology solutions for city development.
Infrastructure:
– The GBA will handle major road construction, stormwater drainage, and utility services.
Security:
– The GBA will establish the Greater Bengaluru Security Force to protect city properties, aid in revenue investigations, and gather information on potential offences.
This framework aims to address Bengaluru’s governance challenges and support its growth effectively.
