Why is BJP Criticizing Karnataka's Rs 6.5 Cr Deal with Tamannaah Bhatia?
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Synopsis
The political landscape in Karnataka is heating up as the BJP criticizes the Congress government over its costly appointment of actress Tamannaah Bhatia as brand ambassador for KSDL. With a hefty fee of Rs 6.5 crore, doubts arise over the profitability of this decision, igniting a fierce debate about its implications for the state.
Key Takeaways
- Political tensions are rising in Karnataka over the actress's appointment.
- The BJP questions the financial viability of spending Rs 6.5 crore.
- Historical significance of Mysore Sandal soap is highlighted.
- The Congress government insists the decision was based on business considerations.
- Criticism from the BJP points to a lack of transparency in decision-making.
Bengaluru, May 27 (NationPress) The ongoing political battle in Karnataka has intensified over the selection of actress Tamannaah Bhatia as the brand ambassador for a state-owned public enterprise. On Tuesday, the state’s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) condemned the Congress government, asserting that after expending Rs 6.5 crore on the actress, they will not even achieve a profit of Rs 60 lakh.
The Siddaramaiah-led Karnataka government has designated Tamannaah Bhatia as the brand ambassador for the well-known Mysore Sandal soap, produced by Karnataka Soaps and Detergents Limited (KSDL).
The actress is receiving a fee of Rs 6.2 crore for the promotional campaign.
This decision has sparked controversy, with objections raised by Kannada organizations and the BJP against the appointment.
During a press briefing, State BJP President B.Y. Vijayendra remarked in Bengaluru, "Decisions seem to be made capriciously. The government should clarify whether hiring Tamannaah Bhatia as a brand ambassador benefits the state or merely certain politicians."
"The discourse surrounding the brand ambassador for Mysore Sandal Soap is significant; it is rooted in a historical decision made by the Maharajas back in 1916 to initiate the industry," he noted.
He continued, "If the state government decides to appoint Tamannaah Bhatia based on the advice of a few so-called experts, shouldn’t they contemplate this decision more thoroughly?"
"I challenge those investing Rs 6.5 crore in Tamannaah Bhatia and making her their brand ambassador to review the financial records next year; they won’t even make a profit of Rs 60 lakh annually. If they are investing Rs 6.5 crore, the state government should ideally aim for a profit of Rs 60 crore," he added.
In response to the selection of Tamannaah Bhatia as a model for Mysore Sandal soap, Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar stated on Tuesday, "I will discuss this matter with Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and State Industries Minister M.B. Patil. A similar dialogue occurred previously regarding bulbs, where we appointed Kannada superstar late Puneet Rajkumar and actress Ramya. We are also contemplating the appointment of cricketer Anil Kumble as an ambassador for the State Forest Department."
The Congress-led Karnataka government asserted on Monday that the decision to appoint Tamannaah Bhatia as KSDL's brand ambassador was based purely on business considerations.
In response to the BJP's criticisms, State Industries Minister M.B. Patil remarked, "As actress Tamannaah Bhatia steps in as KSDL's brand ambassador, BJP leaders have taken to making loud declarations. But where were these leaders during the extensive scams under the leadership of Madal Virupakshappa during the BJP regime?"
Minister Patil clarified that the decision to appoint Tamannaah Bhatia was made strictly on business grounds.
"An expert committee evaluated several factors before arriving at this decision. Other celebrities were also in consideration, but they were under contract with rival brands and could not be chosen," he elaborated.
He also criticized State party President Vijayendra and other BJP leaders for their recent comments on preserving KSDL's legacy, questioning their silence during the irregularities that plagued the company under the BJP's governance in Karnataka.
Patil added that since the Congress government assumed office, proactive steps have been taken to enhance KSDL's operations.
Point of View
It is essential to remain fair and balanced while covering the ongoing political discourse surrounding the appointment of Tamannaah Bhatia as brand ambassador. The BJP's criticisms highlight concerns over financial prudence, while the Congress government defends its decision on business grounds. This situation underscores the need for transparency and accountability in political decisions.
NationPress
08/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the controversy surrounding Tamannaah Bhatia's appointment?
The controversy arises from the BJP's criticism of the Congress government's decision to appoint actress Tamannaah Bhatia as the brand ambassador for KSDL, claiming that the high fee of Rs 6.5 crore will not yield sufficient profits.
How much is Tamannaah Bhatia being paid?
Tamannaah Bhatia is being paid Rs 6.2 crore for her role as the brand ambassador for Mysore Sandal soap.
What historical significance does Mysore Sandal soap hold?
Mysore Sandal soap has historical significance dating back to 1916 when the Maharajas of Mysuru initiated the industry.
What are the BJP's main concerns regarding this appointment?
The BJP's main concerns revolve around the financial implications of spending Rs 6.5 crore on a brand ambassador and whether it serves the state's interests or those of specific politicians.
How has the Congress government responded to the criticism?
The Congress government has defended the appointment, stating it was made purely on business grounds and after thorough consideration by an expert committee.
