Did Bengaluru Get Betrayed? Deputy CM Shivakumar Responds to Biocon Chief Shaw's Criticism of City Infrastructure
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Synopsis
Bengaluru's Deputy Chief Minister, D.K. Shivakumar, reacts strongly to Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw's criticisms regarding the city's infrastructure. He claims her remarks are a betrayal of the city's support and challenges her to disclose CSR fund usage. This controversy highlights the ongoing debate about the government's handling of Bengaluru's infrastructure.
Key Takeaways
- Shivakumar's accusation of betrayal highlights tensions between business leaders and government.
- Calls for transparency regarding CSR fund usage are becoming more frequent.
- Public backlash indicates a growing frustration with infrastructure issues in Bengaluru.
- The government's establishment of separate municipalities aims to improve revenue allocation for development.
- Engagement between the government and industry leaders is crucial for effective solutions.
Bengaluru, Oct 15 (NationPress) In reaction to Biocon's Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw's online criticisms regarding the city's infrastructure, Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar expressed that her comments amount to a “betrayal” of the city that has significantly supported her throughout her career.
Addressing media in Bengaluru on Wednesday, Shivakumar, who oversees Bengaluru Development, remarked, “Where has she been for the past 25 years? Bengaluru has contributed immensely to her success. This is a betrayal of the city. Bengaluru has created jobs for lakhs and nurtured numerous entrepreneurs. Those who criticize should recognize the extensive land and support provided by the government.”
Shivakumar further proposed, “Let every company reveal the utilization of their CSR funds. I have no intention of questioning anyone. Patience is key. If their primary goal is to threaten us through social media, so be it.”
“We are a forward-thinking government. When Prime Minister Narendra Modi acknowledges Bengaluru as a global city, these individuals are contradicting his statement and working against the interests of the state. This is not China; we live in a democracy. In China, they can seize land and construct roads as they wish. In Karnataka, that is not feasible,” he elaborated.
“Will they relinquish their own land for road expansion? Certainly not. They must remember their roots, where they began their journey, and the path that led to their achievements. Their origins and success are tied to Bengaluru,” Shivakumar asserted.
On the topic of pothole repairs, Shivakumar commented: “We are doing everything possible. We have established separate municipalities for Mahadevapura and K.R. Puram, given the presence of the IT hub. These 50 wards can utilize their revenue independently. We understand the population and their needs, which is why this decision was made. The revenue of Rs 1,500 crore from IT can be allocated for the development of these wards. Through Greater Bengaluru Governance (GBG), we have formed five municipal entities in Bengaluru.”
The recent viral post by Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw, highlighting the inadequate road infrastructure and waste management in Bengaluru, has reignited discussions concerning the Congress-led government's management of the IT city’s infrastructure.
In earlier statements, Dy CM Shivakumar, along with IT and BT Minister Priyank Kharge, Large and Medium Industries Minister M.B. Patil, and Labour Minister Santhosh Lad, while asserting the government’s commitment to address the issues, have directed jibes at Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw, urging her to speak out against the Union government.
Minister Kharge noted that in Maharashtra and Uttar Pradesh, critics of the government would be “jailed” and labeled “anti-state.”
Reacting to the ministers' remarks towards Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw’s concerns about poor infrastructure and waste management in Bengaluru, the Karnataka BJP criticized the disparagement of industry leaders as a slight against the state.
BJP State President and MLA B.Y. Vijayendra stated, “In Bengaluru, the government is facing intense criticism from the public regarding infrastructure. Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw is our pride. They are making disparaging remarks against her. When B.S. Yediyurappa was CM, former Infosys CFO Mohan Das Pai criticized the BJP-led government, and he was promptly invited by Yediyurappa for discussions to find solutions for Bengaluru.”
“Whether it’s Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw, Mohan Das Pai, or any industry leader, suggestions should be received positively. Insulting them is an insult to the state,” he concluded.
Point of View
This incident underscores the tension between business leaders and government officials regarding infrastructure development. While criticism can be seen as a catalyst for improvement, it is essential for both sides to engage constructively. A collaborative approach between the government and industry could pave the way for effective solutions to Bengaluru's pressing infrastructure challenges.
NationPress
15/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What sparked the controversy between Deputy CM Shivakumar and Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw?
The controversy arose from Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw's criticism of Bengaluru's infrastructure, to which Deputy CM Shivakumar responded by accusing her of betraying the city.
What were Shivakumar's main points in his response?
Shivakumar emphasized the city's support for Shaw over the years and challenged her to disclose her company's CSR fund usage while defending the government's efforts in developing Bengaluru's infrastructure.
How does the BJP view the situation?
The Karnataka BJP criticized the government's response to Shaw's remarks, stating that insulting industry leaders is an insult to the state and calling for positive engagement.
What initiatives has the government proposed for Bengaluru's infrastructure?
The government has created separate municipalities for certain wards in Bengaluru to better allocate resources and revenue for infrastructure development.
How has the public reacted to the state of Bengaluru's infrastructure?
There has been significant backlash from the public regarding infrastructure issues, prompting discussions about the government's handling of the situation.
