Bengaluru, Oct 14 (NationPress) Karnataka's IT and BT Minister Priyank Kharge delivered a strong response on Tuesday to a social media post by Biocon Chairperson Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw, who criticized the inadequate state of roads and waste management in Bengaluru.

Kharge raised a question about whether such criticism would be accepted in states like Maharashtra or Uttar Pradesh, emphasizing that Karnataka’s government welcomes “constructive criticism.”

In his remarks to the media, Kharge stated, “We embrace constructive criticism positively and strive to fulfill our responsibilities.” He invited industrialists and residents to share their suggestions directly with him.

“Among ten suggestions, one might be acted upon immediately, one or two in the long term, while some may not be feasible. However, we ensure that we listen,” he explained.

In a pointed comment aimed at other states, the Minister noted, “They have taken to social media knowing our responsiveness. Let’s see if they can do the same in Maharashtra or Uttar Pradesh. In UP, you could face imprisonment. In Maharashtra or Madhya Pradesh, you’ll likely be trolled for criticizing the state. Here, we welcome it.”

Kharge’s statements are likely to ignite controversy as discussions surrounding Bengaluru’s infrastructure heat up.

Supporting Kharge, Minister for Large and Medium Industries M.B. Patil recognized Mazumdar-Shaw’s contributions to Karnataka’s progress but noted that the recent monsoon had wreaked havoc on roads statewide.

“This season, Karnataka experienced unprecedented rainfall – 58 percent more in Vijayapura and 38 percent more in Bagalkot. Roads, schools, Anganwadi centers, and residences have been affected across various districts,” Patil mentioned, adding that restoration work is currently in progress.

Meanwhile, the JD(S) has capitalized on Mazumdar-Shaw’s comments to criticize the Congress-led state government, claiming it has neglected Bengaluru’s infrastructure.

“Industrialists are vocally criticizing the Congress government for disregarding Bengaluru, which was once celebrated as India’s Silicon City. Potholes, rubbish, and traffic congestion have now become synonymous with the city,” the JD(S) stated in a social media update.

The party also accused the government of engaging in “60 percent commission politics” and asserted that both Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar are “neglecting their duties.” They urged Priyank Kharge to “stop making hollow statements and focus on resolving the chaos.”

Previously, Mazumdar-Shaw’s viral post reignited public discontent regarding Bengaluru’s deteriorating civic infrastructure.

On X, she expressed: “I hosted an international business visitor at Biocon Park who remarked, ‘Why are the roads so poor and why is there so much garbage? Doesn’t the government want to support investments? I just came back from China and can’t fathom why India struggles to improve, especially when conditions are favorable?’”

She tagged Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, Deputy CM and Bengaluru Development Minister D.K. Shivakumar, and IT & BT Minister Priyank Kharge, urging them to take swift action to rectify these issues.