Bengaluru, Sep 25 (NationPress) In light of the ongoing pothole crisis in Bengaluru, Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, who is also responsible for Bengaluru Development, announced plans to engage with IT industry leaders regarding their concerns over the deteriorating road conditions in tech corridors.

After honoring the late Kannada author S.L. Bhyrappa in Bengaluru, Shivakumar addressed the press, stating, "I will certainly meet with representatives from the IT sector. They are our allies, but they must also recognize their responsibilities."

His remarks about the possibility of IT companies relocating due to inadequate infrastructure sparked some controversy. An IT company co-founder, who had mentioned on social media the intent to move, later retracted that statement, clarifying that the company would be shifting to another site within Bengaluru.

When questioned about his earlier comments regarding potholes made near the Prime Minister’s residence in Delhi, Shivakumar affirmed, "Yes, there are potholes. Just three days ago, I personally witnessed them. The BJP is attempting to create unnecessary drama in Karnataka; let them continue. Our workers can also initiate similar actions in Hubballi, Belagavi, and other BJP-controlled areas," he noted, referring to the BJP’s protests against potholes in Karnataka.

"We are actively working on the issue. I simply urged the public to report potholes, especially since heavy rains have caused exacerbation. The previous BJP administration was marked by mismanagement, neglecting even minor repairs during their last three years in power. We are committed to resolving these issues; we are here to stay. That’s why I requested the Chief Minister for funding, and he generously allocated Rs 740 crore for pothole repairs," Shivakumar emphasized.

He also highlighted that the BJP government failed to provide any financial support for Bengaluru, despite collecting substantial taxes from the city. "The Basavaraj Bommai-led BJP administration did not allocate sufficient funds for the region. Regardless, we are dedicated to the welfare of Bengaluru," he asserted.

When asked about the Vote Chori controversy, Shivakumar declined to comment, reiterating, "We remain committed to our fundamental principle: ensuring one man, one vote."

While paying homage to the late S.L. Bhyrappa, he remarked, "His legacy is now a part of history. I have known him since 1993-94, when he presided over the Kannada Sahitya Sammelan in Kanakapura, which we organized. He is a legend in Kannada literature, recognized internationally, and his works have been translated into numerous languages."

"He received prestigious awards such as the Padma Shri and Padma Bhushan. His passing is a significant loss to the Kannada literary community. I find solace in the fact that people across India are mourning his departure. Karnataka is devoted to preserving his remarkable contributions," he concluded.