Karnataka's Deputy Chief Minister, DK Shivakumar, criticized Union Minister HD Kumaraswamy, alleging that his political agenda is primarily focused on targeting the Congress party. Shivakumar declared that Kumaraswamy's ambition to become the Chief Minister in 2028 will not materialize. The dispute arose after the Karnataka cabinet sanctioned the renaming of Ramanagara district to Bengaluru South, a decision that Shivakumar defended by stating that Ramanagara will still function as the administrative headquarters.
Shivakumar explained that the decision to change the district's name was made with the future well-being of its people in mind. He emphasized that the residents of Ramanagara district identify themselves as Bangaloreans and will continue to do so. Additionally, the Chief Minister highlighted that when Kumaraswamy and Deve Gowda emerged from Hassan, the district was recognized as Bengaluru, a name that Kumaraswamy altered during his tenure in power.
Minister Priyank Kharge backed the government's move, clarifying that renaming Ramanagara to Bengaluru South aims to present the city as an appealing investment destination. Kharge justified the decision by highlighting Bengaluru's proximity to the Central Business District (CBD), stating that showcasing Bengaluru's potential for development and investment is the primary objective. However, the renaming decision faced criticism from BJP MPs Iranna Kadadi and Pralhad Joshi, who condemned the move as a political tactic to undermine the significance of the name "Ram" and discredit the Congress party's motives for the change.