Published Jun 14, 2026 | 10:40 AM ⚊ Updated Jun 14, 2026 | 10:40 AM
Krishna Byre Gowda with Karnataka CM DK Shivakumar. Credit: x.com/krishnabgowda
Synopsis: Senior Karnataka Congress leader Krishna Byre Gowda has refused to take charge of the Bengaluru Development portfolio until he receives full clarity on his responsibilities. 10 days after being sworn in, he insists on complete administrative control over key agencies like BDA and BMRDA to effectively address the city’s infrastructure challenges and avoid accountability issues.
10 days after being sworn in as a Minister in the DK Shivakumar-led Karnataka Cabinet, senior Congress leader Krishna Byre Gowda has stated that he is awaiting full clarity on his responsibilities for the Bengaluru Development portfolio before formally assuming charge.
Key agencies such as the Bangalore Development Authority (BDA) and Bengaluru Metropolitan Region Development Authority (BMRDA) remain under CM DKS’ ambit.
In a statement to the media, Gowda stressed on the need for complete administrative control to effectively deliver results and avoid future confusion.
“I am awaiting clarity on responsibilities before taking charge of the portfolio… to meet expectations,” he reportedly told The Hindu.
He also added concerns that divided responsibilities could lead to accountability issues, potential mismanagement, and interference by intermediaries in Bengaluru’s complex administrative system.
The Greater Bengaluru Development portfolio was assigned to Gowda following the cabinet expansion and portfolio allocation earlier this month. It includes oversight of the Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA), the city’s municipal corporations, Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB), and Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL).
However, the exclusion of BDA and BMRDA — which handle major urban planning, land development, and key infrastructure projects like the Bengaluru Business Corridor, Hebbal tunnel, and Bidadi township — has created dissatisfaction.
Gowda, who previously served as Revenue Minister, reportedly conveyed his reservations directly to DKS and has also engaged with the Congress high command, including a visit to Delhi for discussions. He has not taken charge of the department despite the allocation.
This development comes amid broader portfolio-related discontent in the Congress government. Earlier, other ministers like Ramalinga Reddy expressed unhappiness over allocations, though some issues were resolved through party interventions.
Gowda has served multiple terms as MLA and held key portfolios in previous Congress governments, including Agriculture (2013-2018). He is known for his administrative focus and has been entrusted with Bengaluru’s development amid ongoing challenges like traffic congestion, water shortages, and infrastructure needs.
