The 10-day winter session of the state legislature begins today at the Suvarna Vidhan Soudha in Belagavi, with a focus on North Karnataka’s development and several contentious issues.
The first two days of the session are expected to center around debates on the development of Kalyana Karnataka and Kittur Karnataka. Key topics for discussion will include the delay in the Mahadayi project, the Upper Krishna Project (UKP), and pending irrigation schemes. In addition to these development issues, several controversial matters, such as alleged irregularities in the Mysuru Urban Development Authority (MUDA) site allocations, the Waqf land issue, and the misuse of ST Corporation funds, are likely to dominate the debate.
The Opposition BJP and JDS are ready to target the Congress government on these issues, both inside and outside the legislature. However, it remains to be seen how these discussions unfold and whether members will maintain focus on the issues at hand. Assembly Speaker UT Khader and Council Chairman Basavaraj Horatti expressed optimism about having constructive debates, with Horatti stating he would engage with members to ensure the session remains effective and free from unnecessary protests.
During the session, at least five major Bills, including three private ones, will be tabled. The new MLAs from Shiggaon, Channapattana, and Sandur are scheduled to take their oaths on the first day, followed by a meeting of the Business Advisory Committee. A lengthy debate on the five bills is expected throughout the session.
Belagavi Police Commissioner Iada Martin Marbaniang confirmed that over 6,000 police personnel have been deployed to maintain security and law and order during the session. A total of 64 organizations have applied for permission to stage protests near the Soudha.
Belagavi’s hotels, resorts, and lodges are fully booked to accommodate thousands of guests, including ministers, MLAs, and officials attending the session. The government is expected to spend ₹25 crore on organizing this winter session in Belagavi.
To ensure a peaceful session, the Belagavi police have put in place strict measures to prevent pro-Maharashtra groups from holding parallel sessions or making provocative speeches related to the language dispute on the border.
Unveiling of Anubhava Mantapa Painting and Other Events
A massive painting of the Anubhava Mantapa, established by 12th-century reformer Lord Basaveshwara, will be unveiled by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah at a special ceremony at 10:30 am on Monday. The Belagavi district administration will also light earthen lamps at 30 key circles in the city, mimicking Mysuru’s Dasara celebrations. Additionally, a new science park near the Soudha will be inaugurated.
Special Flight for Session Guests
IndiGo will operate an A320 aircraft between Belagavi and Bengaluru from December 9 to 19 for the convenience of those attending the session. The flight will depart from Bengaluru at 6 am, arriving in Belagavi at 7 am, and will return from Belagavi at 7:30 am, reaching Bengaluru at 8:30 am.
