BJP, JD(S) launch padayatra against Bidadi township project
The BJP and JD(S) have launched a joint protest march against the Bidadi Township project in Karnataka, citing concerns over the displacement of farmers and the loss of fertile land. The opposition parties are challenging the current government's decision to pursue a project previously criticized by its own members.
Why it matters
This represents a significant political alliance and protest movement against urban development policies in a key Indian state.
Union Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy and Leader of Opposition in Vidhana Sabha R. Ashoka on Sunday (August 9, 2026) flagged off a joint padayatra by the Janata Dal (Secular) and the BJP at Bidadi in the Bengaluru South district, launched in opposition to the Bidadi Township project.
The padayatra , which began at Bairamangala Circle in Bidadi, will reach Bengaluru on Tuesday (August 11, 2026), where a large protest will be held at Freedom Park. The development comes just before the start of the Monsoon Session.
This is the first major joint protest by the BJP and JD(S) and is being spearheaded by JD(S) youth wing president Nikhil Kumaraswamy.
While the JD(S) is leading the padayatra , the BJP is all set to debate the township project during the upcoming session.
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