Mandya: Union minister HD Kumaraswamy on Friday outlined key development plans for Mandya while sharply rebutting chief minister Siddaramaiah‘s remarks during a public address at TS Chatra village in Pandavapura.He announced that the govt plans to lay the foundation stone for an Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI) unit in May, stressing that the state must clarify which land will be allocated for the project. He added that the unit is expected to catalyse significant township development across Mandya.Turning to political issues, Kumaraswamy countered Siddaramaiah’s comments on dynastic politics, alleging that the CM attempted to promote both his sons to public office and brought a medical professional into politics for financial purposes. Questioning the moral authority of his critics, he pointed out that multiple families, including those of the chief minister and the deputy CM, have two or three sitting MLAs. He asserted that H D Deve Gowda’s family entered politics not for personal gain but at the people’s behest to address public grievances.Referring to Siddaramaiah’s tenure, Kumaraswamy highlighted a stark shift, noting that while the CM had promised in 2013 to retire from politics, he now claims he will remain in power until 2028. Kumaraswamy suggested that this desire for a “permanent” political role surfaced only after experiencing the perks of office, but added that voters would ultimately decide leadership in the next election.He accused the Congress of pursuing political agendas amid global crises and contended that the Union govt has been proactive in international engagement, while the state govt continues to blame the BJP-led NDA for its failures.He also ridiculed the recent demand by MLAs for multiple IPL tickets, observing that what was once a token of respect has now become a source of public mockery.
