Will stand with State government on developmental issues: Kumaraswamy

Janata Dal (Secular) leader and Union Minister for Steel and Heavy Industries H.D. Kumaraswamy said that development should remain above political considerations, adding that he would stand with the State government on matters of development.

Speaking after inaugurating the newly-established Sainik School at the Shri Krishnadevaraya Education Society in Sindhanur town of Raichur district on Saturday (April 4), Mr. Kumaraswamy said that several development initiatives are required across Raichur district and other parts of Karnataka, and called for all stakeholders to work together, setting aside political differences. He said he remains accessible and committed to contributing to the State’s progress.

While politics may differ, development must remain a shared priority, he said, expressing support for the proposals raised by Hampanagouda Badarli, MLA, and Kumar Naik, MP, to bring industries to the region and create employment opportunities.

He highlighted the need for an All India Institute Of Medical Sciences in Raichur and the proposal for the construction of the Navile reservoir alongside the Tungabhadra reservoir, noting that these are significant projects requiring coordinated efforts.

Sanjay Seth, Minister of State for Defence, and Nara Lokesh, Andhra Pradesh’s Information Technology and Human Resource Development Minister, were also part of the event.

On the issue of the proposed Navile Reservoir, Mr. Kumaraswamy clarified that such a complex and sensitive matter should not be placed on the shoulders of Mr. Lokesh alone. He pointed out that silt accumulation in the Tungabhadra reservoir has significantly reduced its storage capacity, affecting irrigation and agricultural productivity.

The former Chief Minister emphasised that inter-State water issues require careful handling, dialogue, and mutual trust. He cautioned against politicisation and stressed the importance of cooperation between Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh to arrive at a sustainable solution.