BJP protests in Bengaluru over the haunting potholes amid DKS’s statement

BJP leaders stage demonstrations across Bengaluru, even personally filling potholes, while DK Shivakumar defends the state government’s efforts amid mounting political tension.

Civic frustration over potholes escalated into political action on Wednesday, as BJP leaders staged protests across the city, including in Chickpete, while also personally filling and repairing potholes to highlight government inaction. The demonstration, led by BJP leaders Chalavadi Narayanaswamy and MP PC Mohan, aimed to spotlight the city’s worsening road conditions ahead of state elections.

Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar responded strongly to the criticism, defending the Congress-led government’s work on road repairs. “Every day, nearly 1,000 potholes are being filled across Bengaluru through coordinated efforts. Our workers and engineers are on the ground in all zones, ensuring both speed and quality in the repairs,” Shivakumar said.

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Shivakumar alleged that Karnataka’s pothole problem is being exaggerated and noted that potholes are a national issue. “I travelled around Delhi just a day ago. The media must review and report how many potholes are on Delhi's roads, including the road to the PM's residence. Only Karnataka’s issues are being shown,” he added.

Shivakumar also blamed the previous BJP government for neglecting Bengaluru’s roads. “If the roads had been maintained well during the BJP's period, we would not have reached this stage. They did not bother to do anything to fix the potholes, but now they are raising this issue as elections approach,” he said.

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The political tension further escalated after Union Minister HD Kumaraswamy criticised the state government, calling Bengaluru the “City of Potholes” and accusing the ruling Congress of incompetence. Shivakumar hit back, questioning Kumaraswamy’s record as Union Minister and asking why promised funds and projects for Bengaluru were never delivered.

With BJP leaders taking to the streets and even personally repairing craters to make a point, road infrastructure has emerged as a major flashpoint in Bengaluru’s politics, with state elections looming on the horizon.