Bengaluru: Leader of Opposition R. Ashoka on Sunday alleged that the proposed international cricket stadium in Anekal was part of a larger plan to inflate land prices and facilitate commission-based deals.
Addressing reporters in Bengaluru, Ashoka questioned the state government’s decision to push ahead with the project despite opposition from farmers and environmental activists.
“Bengaluru’s M. Chinnaswamy Stadium is used only four or five times a year. In such a situation, what is the need for another international stadium?” he asked.
Ashoka alleged that the real intention behind the project was to increase the value of surrounding land parcels and commercially exploit them. “No sportsperson from Anekal has approached the government demanding a stadium. The sudden announcement of the project raises suspicions that it is aimed at making money,” he claimed.
He further said the Chinnaswamy Stadium was originally envisioned as a space to nurture young cricketing talent, but now primarily hosts high-revenue IPL matches. “There is hardly any opportunity for newcomers. Only events that generate crores of rupees are getting priority,” he alleged.
Commenting on the recent increase in petrol and diesel prices, Ashoka said the Centre would not receive any additional tax revenue from the hike, while the Karnataka government stood to gain nearly Rs 7,000 crore annually through state taxes.
He attributed the rise in fuel prices to global crude oil trends and ongoing international conflicts, saying several countries were witnessing similar increases. “If the Congress government is truly concerned about the people, it should reduce its share of taxes,” he demanded.
Referring to remarks made by actor-politician Kamal Haasan on public cooperation during difficult times, Ashoka took a swipe at the Congress, saying, “Even the DMK seems to have understood the situation, but the Congress still hasn’t.”
