Will dump garbage at BJP MLAs’ doorsteps if they block disposal: D K Shivakumar

                                 Warns of ESMA action, DK accuses BJP of blackmail

Bengaluru

Deputy Chief Minister (Dy.CM) and Bengaluru Development Minister, D K Shivakumar on Tuesday issued a blunt warning to BJP MLAs allegedly obstructing garbage disposal in Bengaluru, declaring that the government would invoke the Essential Services Maintenance Act (ESMA) and, if necessary, dump waste in front of their homes.

“Don’t test our patience. If anyone blocks garbage clearance, we will act under ESMA. If BJP MLAs continue to stall disposal in their constituencies, we will have no option but to send the garbage to their doorsteps,” Shivakumar told reporters at the KPCC office.

Referring to protests in Mahadevapura, he accused BJP leaders of arm-twisting the government for funds while simultaneously resisting waste processing in their areas. He named Arvind Limbavali and Dheeraj Muniraju, alleging they were using the issue as leverage.

“Garbage has to be processed somewhere. We are using the same sites identified earlier. If they refuse responsibility, should we dump it outside the homes of R. Ashoka or B. Y. Vijayendra?” he asked.

On concerns over accidents involving garbage trucks, Shivakumar said the law would address negligence, but waste movement cannot be halted. He noted that disposal is ongoing in constituencies represented by leaders across party lines.

The Dy.CM also revealed that two new waste-processing sites have been purchased and tenders floated, pending legal clearances.

Turning the heat on the BJP over funding constraints, Shivakumar blamed the previous Bharatiya Janata Party government for financial mismanagement. He alleged that during the tenure of former Chief Minister B S Yediyurappa, contracts worth ₹30,000–40,000 crore were tendered against a budget allocation of just ₹10,000 crore.

“Let contractors complain if they want. We are releasing funds strictly as per the budget. We will review matters after the budget session,” he said, dismissing threats of work stoppage.

The standoff signals an escalating political battle over Bengaluru’s mounting garbage crisis.