The demand for a separate North Karnataka state, encompassing 15 districts, has resurfaced after Congress MLA Bharamagouda Raju Kage formally wrote to the President and the Prime Minister, a move that has sparked intense debate and strong opposition from within his own party.
MLA Raju Kage publicly articulated his demand for a separate state, arguing that the North Karnataka region is suffering from neglect in terms of development and progress. He specified that the proposed state should include 15 districts, including Bidar, Ballari, Kalaburagi, Vijayapura, and Davangere.
The Official Plea -
The Congress MLA sent letters to the President, the Prime Minister, and the Governor of Karnataka, requesting the formation of a separate state for the comprehensive development and administrative convenience of the North Karnataka region.
Internal Opposition Within Congress -
Kage’s controversial demand has met with strong disapproval from several key members of the Congress party. Prominent leaders swiftly voiced their support for an 'Akhanda Karnataka' (United Karnataka), indicating that Kage's personal opinion does not reflect the party's stand. iQOO Z10x 5G (Titanium, 8GB RAM, 128GB Storage) | 6500 mAh Large Capacity Battery | Dimensity 7300 Processor | Military-Grade Durability
Several Congress ministers and MLAs criticized the move, including Minister Satish Jarkiholi, Minister Ramalinga Reddy, and MLA Ashok Pattana. They stated:
"Everyone has the freedom to express their opinion. Umesh Katti also made such statements several times. However, our stance is for a United Karnataka; we all must remain together. The party does not accept the statement made on a personal matter."
The controversy highlights the political friction over regional development and the state's unity. Also Read: Karnataka Proposes Renaming Four Railway Stations After Local Saints; MB Patil Writes to Union Home Ministry