Why should I make a U-turn?: Karnataka CM D.K. Shivakumar on parks amendment Bill
Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar defended the withdrawal of the Parks Amendment Bill, stating the decision was made to respect public sentiment rather than as a political U-turn. He also criticized the opposition BJP for being anti-development regarding infrastructure projects like tunnel roads in Bengaluru.
Why it matters
The controversy highlights the tension between urban infrastructure development and public preservation efforts in rapidly growing Indian cities.
Dismissing the claim that the government had been forced into a “U-turn” on the Karnataka Government Parks (Preservation) (Amendment) Bill, Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar on Friday (September 4, 2026) defended the withdrawal , saying the decision was taken to respect public sentiment and allow for a wider discussion on the legislation.
“Why should I make a U-turn? The sentiments of the people have been respected. We will release a list of what happened during the tenures of Yediyurappa and Bommai. There should be a discussion on this. There is no intention to build a tunnel through Lalbagh. Alternative routes will be examined,” Mr. Shivakumar, addressing the media here, said.
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