The Karnataka Cabinet has approved a significant change to the administrative landscape of the state by renaming. This decision, announced on Friday, follows growing support from local leaders and residents who advocate for the new name to enhance the district’s association with the prominent ‘Brand Bengaluru.’ The proposal was backed by Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivkumar and other officials who believe that the name change will align the district more closely with the capital city’s global image.
The renaming decision was endorsed by the Karnataka Cabinet, chaired by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, with Law and Parliamentary Affairs Minister H K Patil confirming that the change is intended to reflect the district’s connection to Bengaluru. Despite the name change, the administrative structure, including the names of taluks such as Ramanagara, Magadi, Kanakapura, Channapatna, and Harohalli, will remain unchanged. Ramanagara town, which is approximately 50 kilometers from Bengaluru, will continue as the headquarters of the newly named Bengaluru South district. The push for renaming has been driven by local demand and is seen as a strategic move to leverage the ‘Brand Bengaluru’ for regional development. Shivakumar, who hails from the district and represents the Kanakapura Assembly segment, initially proposed the idea last year. However, the decision has sparked controversy, particularly from former Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy, who has criticized the renaming as a potential ploy to boost real estate values and has threatened to reverse the change if he returns to power.
The decision to rename Ramanagara district as Bengaluru South marks a notable shift in Karnataka’s administrative framework, reflecting a broader effort to integrate the region more closely with Bengaluru’s brand and economic prospects. While the change aims to capitalize on the capital city’s prestige, it has also generated political and public debate. The move is expected to influence upcoming local elections and has been met with both support and skepticism regarding its real impact on the area’s development and real estate. As the Revenue Department begins the renaming process, the broader implications for the district and its residents will continue to unfold.
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