The Karnataka cabinet has approved the renaming of Ramanagara district to Bengaluru South, following demands from the local populace. Karnataka Law and Parliamentary Affairs Minister, HK Patil, announced the decision, emphasizing that it aligns with the aspirations of the people and supports the “Brand Bengaluru” initiative.

The revenue department will soon issue an official notification of the name change. Minister Patil clarified that the renaming will not affect the existing taluks within the district. Currently, Ramanagara district encompasses the taluks of Ramanagara, Magadi, Kanakapura, Channapatna, and Harohalli, all of which will now be part of the newly named Bengaluru South district.

The proposal to rename the district was first suggested by Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar in October of the previous year. Shivakumar stated that the aim was to extend Bengaluru’s global recognition to the neighboring taluks, enhancing their development prospects by associating them with the renowned city.

However, the decision has faced criticism. The JDS and BJP have accused the government of using the renaming as a ploy to inflate real estate values in Ramanagara, arguing that it will not necessarily lead to meaningful development.

Central Minister and JDS leader Kumaraswamy has been a vocal opponent of the renaming. Expressing his deep personal connection to Ramanagara, Kumaraswamy threatened to undertake a hunger strike if the district’s name is changed. “I have an emotional relationship with Ramanagara, and I will fight to protect its pride until my last breath,” he declared.

Despite the controversy, the Karnataka cabinet’s decision stands, marking a significant change in the region’s identity as Ramanagara transitions to Bengaluru South.