Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has urged Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari to postpone the inauguration of the newly constructed bridge over the Tunga river in Shivamogga after raising concerns about protocol violations and lack of official intimation despite his name featuring on the event invitation card. This development has triggered a fresh round of Centre-state friction over coordination in major infrastructure inaugurations.
Siddaramaiah raises protocol issue over bridge inauguration
In a letter to Gadkari, Siddaramaiah expressed disappointment at not being informed officially about the inauguration ceremony even though his name appeared on the invitation card released by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI). The CM stated that such lapses violate established protocol and urged the Union minister to postpone the event until proper communication is ensured.
He wrote, “My name is mentioned on the invitation card, but no official information was given to me or my office regarding the programme. I request you to direct your officers to postpone the inauguration to a later date after informing the state government as per protocol.”
Event details and state’s concerns
The inauguration was scheduled for this weekend in Shivamogga, with Union Minister Nitin Gadkari expected to dedicate the bridge to the public. The ₹83 crore project is crucial as it connects key highway stretches in central Karnataka and promises to reduce commute time, boost inter-district freight movement, and enhance regional connectivity.
However, Siddaramaiah’s office highlighted the following concerns:
| Issue Raised | Details |
|---|---|
| Lack of communication | No official invitation received by CM despite name on card |
| Violation of protocol | State government should be formally informed for joint inauguration |
| Political friction | Seen as Centre ignoring state leadership in major infrastructure launches |
Opposition slams BJP for ‘bypassing’ CM
Congress leaders criticised the BJP for what they called deliberate sidelining of the Chief Minister. State ministers argued that Centre-state cooperation must be upheld, especially in projects executed under central-state funding models. They cited past instances where CM-level protocol was maintained for inaugurations of flyovers, bridges, and highways regardless of political differences.
Meanwhile, BJP leaders dismissed the accusations, stating that all dignitaries’ names were included and the CM was not deliberately excluded. They emphasised that the bridge was completed under tight deadlines, demonstrating efficient governance under the Union ministry.
Significance of the bridge for Shivamogga and central Karnataka
The new Tunga river bridge is expected to have far-reaching benefits for the region’s connectivity and economy:
| Feature | Impact |
|---|---|
| Four-lane structure | Eases congestion on NH-169A |
| Total cost: ₹83 crore | Funded under Bharatmala Pariyojana |
| Length: 570 metres | Key to uninterrupted transport during monsoons |
| Economic boost | Enhances trade routes to Chikmagalur, Udupi, and coastal Karnataka |
Local traders’ associations have welcomed the bridge, anticipating growth in agro-commodity transport, tourism traffic to Jog Falls and Kodachadri, and reduced travel risks during heavy rains.
Experts call for better Centre-state coordination
Infrastructure analysts argue that while the Centre has accelerated project delivery in Karnataka, coordination with state leadership ensures smoother public perception and avoids unnecessary political controversy. Former bureaucrats suggested that formal intimation to the CM’s office is not just a courtesy but part of standard government protocol, especially for inaugurations attended by Union Cabinet ministers.
Similar protocol controversies in recent times
This is not the first time such tensions have emerged. In January this year, West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee boycotted a railway event citing lack of official invitation despite her name on the dais. Tamil Nadu and Kerala too have raised similar objections in the past year regarding foundation stone laying ceremonies and transport project launches.
| Year | State | Event | Issue Raised |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | Karnataka | Tunga bridge inauguration | CM not informed despite name on invitation |
| 2025 | West Bengal | Railway project inauguration | Lack of formal invite to CM |
| 2024 | Kerala | Highway expansion launch | State ministers not consulted for schedule |
Centre’s stance and possible rescheduling
Sources in the Road Transport Ministry indicated that the event could be rescheduled to ensure CM Siddaramaiah’s presence if an official request is made. They emphasised that the ministry remains committed to respecting protocol while delivering infrastructure to the people of Karnataka without delay.
Conclusion
The inauguration of the ₹83 crore Tunga river bridge, which is expected to boost Karnataka’s connectivity and economy, has become a political flashpoint between the state and Centre over procedural lapses and protocol oversight. As CM Siddaramaiah seeks a postponement to ensure due respect to state leadership, the episode highlights the need for improved communication channels to avoid such controversies and focus on public welfare.
Disclaimer: This news content is for information and awareness purposes only. Readers are advised to verify event schedules, government statements, and official notifications before forming opinions or planning related activities.
