Garbage Disposal Row Explodes: DCM Targets BJP Over ‘Blackmail’ Allegations
Bengaluru, February 18: Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar on Tuesday issued a stern warning to BJP MLAs and leaders, stating that the Essential Services Maintenance Act (ESMA) would be invoked if they continue to obstruct garbage disposal operations in Bengaluru.
Addressing reporters at the KPCC office, Shivakumar, who also holds the Bengaluru City Development portfolio, said strict action would be taken against those disrupting essential civic services. He further remarked that if BJP leaders continued to object to waste disposal in their constituencies, garbage would be dumped in front of their residences.
Responding to questions about obstruction to garbage disposal in Mahadevapura, the DCM alleged that certain MLAs were “blackmailing” the government for funds while opposing waste management activities in their areas. He named Arvind Limbavali and Doddaballapura MLA Dheeraj Muniraju in this context.
“If they keep objecting to garbage disposal in their constituencies, where should the waste go? We will have to send it to their homes or to BJP leaders like R Ashok, Vijayendra or even to the BJP office,” he said.
When asked about allegations that waste disposal is being opposed due to accidents involving garbage trucks, Shivakumar stated that while accidents must be addressed legally, garbage disposal cannot be halted. He noted that waste is being processed in the constituencies of S T Somashekar, Shivanna and Krishna Byregowda as well.
The DCM added that the government has acquired two additional sites for waste disposal and floated tenders. A final decision will be taken after completing necessary legal formalities, he said.
The remarks signal escalating political tensions over waste management in Bengaluru amid ongoing civic challenges.
Also Read: DK Shivakumar Reacts to ESMA Challenge, Says ‘We Know What to Do’
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Atul Chaturvedi 
