Daijiworld Media Network – Shimoga (SP)

Shimoga, Mar 30: Even though at the state level, the differences between state Chief Minister, Yeddyurappa, with BJP state president, Eshwarappa, seem to have been given temporary burial, the two are engaged in fierce fighting over local issues in their home district. In a tug-of-war between these two leaders over the widening of a road in the town, Yeddyurappa has gained upper hand.

The state government, against the wishes of Eshwarpapa, have asked the district administration to go ahead with its plan to widen the New Tirthahalli Road (N T Road), apart from releasing Rs 18.5 crore required for the same. The road expansion plan is expected to be executed soon.

Deputy commissioner of the district, Ponnuraj, had felt a need for the expansion of N T Road, which is an important road in the town, and had submitted a proposal for the same to the state government. He also had made ground work for executing the project. The locals, who fear losing of their homes and business because of the widening of the road, have vehemently opposed the project. After the local people approached Eshwarappa, he had instructed the deputy commissioner not to take steps for widening of N T Road.

It is not known as to whether the clearance of the project and release of funds are part of the ploy by the CM to humble Eshwarappa in his home turf, or they were backed by genuine concern for the development of the town. The BJP president will find it hard to oppose the project tooth and nail, as the BJP has repeatedly claimed itself to be development-oriented. Reportedly, Eshwarappa is concerned about the adverse impact this road expansion plan will have on his vote bank, apart from the souring of his relationship with a few bigwigs.