Karnataka CM Shivakumar Renovates Kumara Krupa Guest House, Shuns Traditional CM Residence

Karnataka Chief Minister D K Shivakumar's decision to shift his official residence to the renovated Kumara Krupa guest house instead of occupying the traditional Chief Minister's residence has sparked a political controversy, with the Janata Dal (Secular) accusing the Congress government of altering a heritage building for personal preference and convenience.

Since assuming office earlier this month, extensive renovation work has been underway at the Kumara Krupa guest house in Bengaluru. Earth-moving equipment has been deployed within the premises, where trenches have been dug to separate the older structure from newer buildings. Construction workers have also begun renovation work on the two-storeyed building, with scaffolding erected across parts of the complex.

According to the government, the renovated Kumara Krupa guest house will serve as the Chief Minister's official residence. Shivakumar has reportedly chosen not to move into the traditional official residence, 'Krishna', which has long housed Karnataka chief ministers. The decision has fuelled speculation that the residence is considered "jinxed" because several former occupants either lost power or had short tenures after living there.

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The move has drawn criticism from the JD(S), which questioned the need to modify a heritage property to suit the Chief Minister's preferences. The party alleged that significant structural changes were being carried out at the historic guest house and accused the government of unnecessarily spending public money while compromising the character of the building.

The Congress government, however, has maintained that the work is part of planned renovation and infrastructure improvements. The controversy has added a political dimension to what would otherwise have been an administrative decision, with the debate focusing on the cost of renovations, preservation of heritage structures and the symbolism surrounding the Chief Minister's official residence in Karnataka.

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