50km Closer to Bengaluru: Ramanagara District Renamed Bengaluru South

Karnataka cabinet approves renaming Ramanagara district to Bengaluru South. Decision aims to boost brand image and attract development. Opposition party threatens to reverse the move if they come to power.

CONTENTS: 50km Closer to Bengaluru: Ramanagara District

• Ramanagara renamed Bengaluru South
• Ramanagara renamed Bengaluru South to boost brand
• Renaming sparks political row over real estate

The state cabinet has approved renaming Ramanagara district to ‘Bengaluru South’ in a move aimed at enhancing its brand value. This decision is likely to spark political discussions and elevate the district’s significance in infrastructure projects.

Ramanagara town, located 50 km from Bengaluru, will remain the district headquarters and will encompass the taluks of Magadi, Kanakapura, Channapatna, and Harohalli. The proposal gained traction after a meeting chaired by Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar and Chief Minister Siddaramaiah.

Law and Parliamentary Affairs Minister HK Patil announced, “We’ve decided to rename Ramanagara district as ‘Bengaluru South’ to align with the ‘Brand Bengaluru’ initiative and in response to local demand. The revenue department will begin the process.” He added that the names of the taluks within the district will remain unchanged, noting that the residents of Ramanagara wish to be linked with the Brand Bengaluru, reflecting the sentiments of the local population.

The renaming proposal holds particular significance for Shivakumar, who hails from Ramanagara and represents Kanakapura in the legislative assembly. He proposed the change in October. However, Union Minister HD Kumaraswamy has criticized the move, threatening to reverse it if he returns to power, accusing it of being driven by real estate interests. Kumaraswamy has even warned of a hunger strike if the government proceeds with the renaming.

When asked about the political implications, Patil responded, “This decision was not made with elections in mind. If property values increase, it will benefit the residents, demonstrating that our decision is in the best interest of the people of Ramanagara.”