BENGALURU: Karnataka Deputy CM and Bengaluru Development Minister DK Shivakumar kicked up a controversy after he warned a Bengaluru Apartment Federation (BAF) representative over the delay in modification and implementation of the Karnataka Apartment (Ownership and Management) Bill.
Shivakumar’s statements came at a meeting with representatives of the Bengaluru Apartment Federation and other associations at Vidhana Soudha.
“One Mr Kiran Hebbar (treasurer of BAF) has written a threatening letter, saying apartment owners could influence the GBA (Greater Bengaluru Authority) elections if the government doesn’t listen to them. We are not scared of threats. One must have basic common sense. Who are they talking to? We are here for you and that is why we are calling you here and seeking your feedback,” he said. “Let me tell you, I did not fear PM and home minister , and went to jail. You think I will be scared of some Hebbar. You can’t warn this government,” he threatened.
As his statement flooded social media, Mohandas Pai, former Infosys CFO, was quick to condemn his statement. He said, “Minister @DKShivakumar, this is very wrong. Yes, you are our Minister, but you are our representative, not our Master. We are a democracy and have a right to question Ministers. Very wrong to talk to citizens like this and create Fear. Citizens are suffering and need help. Good for you to help.”
Will leave a legacy for Bengaluru, says DKS
Later in a press release, Shivakumar sought apartment dwellers’ support in the GBA election. “We are bringing this Bill that was not introduced by previous governments. During elections, I visited 100 apartments and sought their backing, but we were not backed. My brother lost by 1 lakh votes in one constituency during the parliamentary election. Naturally, I felt disappointed. I have invited you to seek your suggestions and feedback for the Apartment Bill. We will discuss this with MLAs too,” he said.
Shivakumar said he wants to leave behind a legacy and has initiated many projects that will change the face of the city, including two tunnel roads, 130 km Bengaluru Business Corridor and other major projects. “PM Narendra Modi and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari have asked us to proceed with these projects,” he added.
He asked people to provide their suggestions at gbasuggestion@gmail.com in the next 10 days.
Talking about the Bill, Additional Chief Secretary, Urban Development Department (UDD), Tushar Girinath said the common facility area will be given access to all owners, and the association is authorised to collect a surcharge for the swimming pool, gym and clubhouse from users only. The government will now have a competent authority and a complaint redressal system.