Invited Just 3 Days in Advance, Says CM; Gadkari Responds

After Chief Minister Siddaramaiah slammed the Central Government for not "inviting" him for the inauguration of Karnataka's longest cable bridge in Shivamogga district on Monday and alleged they violated protocol, Union Minister for Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari said that they had invited the former and a letter was also sent to his office.

- EXPRESS NEWS SERVICE @ Bengaluru/Vijayapura

Taking to social media platform 'X', Gadkari said, "An official invitation was duly extended to Chief Minister of Karnataka Siddaramaiah on 11th July 2025, inviting him to preside over the programme. In light of any possible scheduling challenges, a subsequent letter was sent on 12th July, requesting his virtual presence."

Further, Gadkari said that the Centre continues to uphold established protocols and has consistently appreciated the contributions and cooperation of the Karnataka government and CM Siddaramaiah. "It remains committed to cooperative federalism and close coordination with all states," he said.