Civic Showdown in Bengaluru: DCM Warns MLAs Over Waste Obstruction
Bengaluru, February 18: Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar on Wednesday issued a stern warning to BJP MLAs and leaders, stating that the government would not tolerate obstruction to garbage disposal in Bengaluru and would invoke the Essential Services Maintenance Act (ESMA) if necessary.
Addressing reporters near the KPCC office, the DCM said that anyone interfering with waste management operations—whether an MLA or any other individual—would face strict action without leniency. He warned that if BJP leaders continued to block garbage disposal in their constituencies, the government would be forced to dump garbage in front of their homes or party offices.
Reacting to obstruction in Mahadevapura, Shivakumar accused certain BJP legislators of “blackmailing” the government by demanding constituency funds while opposing waste dumping in their areas. He named Arvind Limbavali and Doddaballapura MLA Dheeraj Muniraju in this context.
“If garbage cannot be disposed in their constituencies, where should it go? Should it be sent to R Ashok, Vijayendra or the BJP office?” he questioned.
Responding to claims that the protest was due to accidents involving garbage trucks, the DCM said accidents should be dealt with legally but waste management operations cannot be halted. He pointed out that garbage disposal continues in constituencies represented by S T Somashekar, Shivanna and Krishna Byregowda.
Shivakumar further stated that the government has purchased two additional sites for waste disposal and tenders have been invited in accordance with legal procedures. After addressing pending legal formalities, a final decision will be taken, he added.
The Deputy Chief Minister reiterated that the government would not bow to political pressure and would ensure uninterrupted civic services in the city.
Also Read: DK Shivakumar Reacts to ESMA Challenge, Says ‘We Know What to Do’
Also Read: Garbage Disposal Row Explodes: DCM Targets BJP Over ‘Blackmail’ Allegations
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