BENGALURU: In a gesture of kindness to the residents of Bengluru, the state government has launched 101 Indira canteens within city limits which will serve breakfast for Rs 5, and lunch and dinner for Rs 10.
AICC Vice President Rahul Gandhi inaugurated the canteens at Kanakanapalya and directed the state to ensure that the food is safe, clean and tasty. "Many people come here from across the country with a dream. They should feel that one can live here without staying hungry," Rahul Gandhi said.
Chief minister Siddaramaiah, who had earlier announced that 198 canteens - one in every ward of Bengaluru city - would be opened in August, said that only 101 could be completed due to lack of space. The canteen is part of the state’s initiative to make it hunger free, Rahul Gandhi said.
Commissioner not allowed
Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) commissioner Manjunath Prasad, who wanted to inspect the canteen premises prior to Rahul Gandhi’s arrival was prevented by the Special Protection Group (SPG). Bengaluru development minister KJ George had to intervene and convince the SPG to do otherwise. Former union minister Oscar Fernandes was also not allowed and sat among the public before being called to share the dias by KJ George.