Chitradurga: The state govt has officially acquired the historic residence of Siddavanahalli Nijalingappa — the first chief minister of unified Karnataka — for Rs 4.2 crore, bringing to close decade-long efforts to preserve the edifice.
The acquisition, formalised on Thursday, will pave the way for the residence to be converted into a memorial, offering the public an opportunity to acquaint themselves with one of Karnataka's most respected political figures.
T Venkatesh, the deputy commissioner of Chitradurga, confirmed the completion of the sale agreement, highlighting the need to conserve the residence.
The residence, built in 1939, served as the home of Nijalingappa, who played a significant role in the state's political history. It holds immense historical value, not only for Nijalingappa's contributions as a political figure, but also for his legacy as an AICC president and freedom fighter.
"The 85-year-old building requires attention. We will prepare an action plan and submit it to the govt soon," Venkatesh said.
The sale agreement was executed by Kiran Shankar, Nijalingappa's son-in-law and the legal representative.
According to the will, the property was registered in the name of Nijalingappa's grandson, Vinay. The acquisition was formalised by way of a power of attorney granted by Vinay, who resides in the US.
The acquisition process was hobbled by procedural delays, even after the then chief minister B S Yediyurappa had allocated Rs 5 crore to facilitate the acquisition five years ago, as reported by TOI.
With the state govt's approval on November 12, 2024, the acquisition process finally gathered steam, as all legal hurdles regarding the will were cleared.
Mohan Kondajji, a former MLC and close associate of Nijalingappa, expressing his joy over the acquisition, said: "I am very happy today. I have been fighting for this for a decade. Now, the memorial will allow people from the state to learn more about Nijalingappa," Kondajji added.