Celebrities appeal to deputy CM to release funds for Jayanagar development works

BENGALURU: Amidst the suspension of local area development funds for Jayanagar, several celebrities have appealed Deputy CM D K Shivakumar to release funds for development works in the area. Earlier, Shivakumar himself had appealed to local celebrities and politicians to donate to the area’s development.

Actor Tara appealed that newly elected MLA Ramamurthy expressed concern and noted that he is enthusiastic about development. “The government should release funds”, she said.

Another actor, Aniruddh, also said that Jayanagar is lagging behind in development. He also emphasized that development work should continue regardless of political differences. “Jayanagar faces issues like potholed roads, lack of ramps and unscientific planning. If people ask the local MLA, they say that no grant has been released from the government. If there is any misunderstanding, solve it, and everyone has equal rights in the matter of development”, Anirudh said while requesting the government to release funds first.

Shivakumar justified the suspension of funds. “Let the BJP oppose it. I left it for the same reason. I have given grants to all from deputy CM funds. There is a problem, and I have released Rs 10 crore as an emergency. Jayanagar is a very small constituency, there is no big problem. However, I know that constituencies should be given a grant, but they made very big allegations”.

Shivakumar said he will look into whether more funds are required. He clarified that Rs 40 crore had already been allocated to Jayanagar and Rs 600 crore to various projects across the state. He assured that he would visit the area and address concerns.,

He was reacting to criticism that MLAs have sought funds, but he would visit the constituencies himself to understand the problems. “I will visit the constituency once. Let them comment. I cannot say no to critics. Let them throw eggs, stones or display black flags. It doesn’t matter”, he said.