Dharwad residents upset over Bellad’s stand on HDMC bifurcation

Dharwad: Strong resentment is brewing among sections of Dharwad residents after reports that BJP MLA Arvind Bellad has opposed the bifurcation of the Hubballi-Dharwad Municipal Corporation (HDMC). Members of the Agitation Committee for a Separate Dharwad Municipal Corporation said his change in stance has dashed the hopes of citizens who have long demanded an independent civic body.Committee member Venkatesh Machakanur said that without bifurcation, injustice to Dharwad will continue. "For years, residents have felt sidelined in development and resource allocation. A separate corporation is essential for focused growth," he said.He rejected claims that division would affect funding, arguing that allocations from the Finance Commission and other schemes are population-based. "Both cities will receive funds proportionate to their population. The argument that a bigger corporation gets more funds is misleading. Currently, Hubballi takes the lion's share," he alleged.Machakanur said the proposal had earlier received unanimous support in the council and accused political interests of delaying it at the Governor's office for nearly 10 months.The committee said it will not withdraw its agitation. Forum leaders Manoj Patil, Prof Shadaksharayya, MB Katti, and G S Byadagi urged Bellad to reconsider, calling any attempt to reverse the resolution a betrayal of Dharwad's people.