Bengaluru: The inauguration of Yellow Line Metro Sunday turned into a political show of strength near Ragi Gudda station, with BJP and Congress staking claim for the project. Banners from leaders of both parties were displayed along stretches of Jayanagar, Marenahalli Road and around Ragi Gudda. Party workers chanted slogans praising their leaders, while folk artists performed as Prime Minister Narendra Modi‘s convoy passed.When the PM arrived around 12.10pm, supporters showered flower petals and raised slogans. People were seen standing on staircases of buildings along Marenahalli Road up to the Ragi Gudda flyover to catch a glimpse. Banners and flags were put up in blatant violation of BBMP rules on outdoor advertisements.BJP flags were placed on medians from Jayanagar 4th Main, RV Road, Marenahalli Road and other stretches. Congress supporters gathered in large numbers near Ragi Gudda station, where deputy CM DK Shivakumar greeted them before entering. Lashing out at BJP leaders, Shivakumar said MPs and ministers from the party had played no role in securing projects for Bengaluru. For Namma Metro, he said, the state govt bears 80% of the cost, while the Centre provides only 20%.Free bus or Metro? Poser from PMWhile the credit war played out outside, the mood inside the inaugural ride was lighter. CM Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar sat on either side of Modi for the 12-station journey from Ragi Gudda to Konappana Agrahara. A senior official said: “Dignitaries had a fun time during the inaugural ride. Politicians often accuse each other in public, but they have a humane side when interacting informally.” During the trip, the PM asked Metro staff whether they preferred free bus rides or Metro travel, drawing smiles. Shivakumar also briefed him on the state’s free bus scheme.
