The Karnataka government's plan to rename Ramanagara district as Bengaluru South District has faced a significant hurdle, with the central government reportedly rejecting the proposal. Despite this opposition, Karnataka's Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar has asserted the state government's resolve to proceed with the renaming, arguing that it is a state matter.

The Karnataka Cabinet had initially approved the proposal to rename Ramanagara district as Bengaluru South back in July 2024. Shivakumar, who represents Kanakapura, a part of Ramanagara district, in the Assembly, has been a strong advocate for the change. His primary argument is that leveraging the "Brand Bengaluru" would foster development in the region and restore the pride of its people, who were once part of the Bengaluru Rural district. He believes that renaming the district would bring new opportunities to the younger generation, given Bengaluru's global recognition.

However, the Union Home Ministry has raised concerns and reservations about the proposed renaming. According to sources, the ministry communicated its disapproval to the Karnataka government a couple of months prior. This intervention from the central government has ignited a political debate, with accusations of political interference being leveled against the BJP-led Centre by Karnataka ministers.

Union Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy has been a vocal opponent of the renaming from the outset. Kumaraswamy, who served as Chief Minister when Ramanagara district was carved out in 2007, has argued that the renaming could lead to the regularization of illegal properties and benefit land mafias by increasing real estate prices. He has also accused Shivakumar of pursuing "hate politics" and obstructing Ramanagara's growth.

In response to the Centre's rejection, Shivakumar has stated that the state government is aware of the legal aspects and how to implement the renaming. He criticized Kumaraswamy for allegedly influencing the Centre's decision and emphasized that renaming districts falls under the purview of the state government.

The Karnataka cabinet is expected to discuss legal remedies to pursue the renaming. Ministers have criticized the BJP for its objections, with some pointing out that the BJP itself has overseen numerous name changes in states like Uttar Pradesh. IT Minister Priyank Kharge suggested that the renaming is part of a broader strategy to boost economic activity and development in the region.

The debate surrounding the renaming of Ramanagara district has also touched upon the district's history and its connection to Bengaluru. Ramanagara was created in 2007 from parts of the former Bengaluru Rural district, comprising Ramanagara, Channapatna, Magadi, and Kanakapura taluks. Shivakumar has emphasized that Ramanagara town will remain the district headquarters even if the renaming proceeds.

While the political wrangling continues, the core issue remains whether renaming Ramanagara as Bengaluru South will indeed bring about the promised development and economic benefits. Proponents argue that it will attract investment, boost real estate, and create opportunities for the region's youth. Opponents, however, fear that it could lead to land grabbing, loss of identity, and disregard for the area's historical and cultural significance.