Bengaluru: Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh are engaged in a war of words over Bengaluru’s infrastructure issues and the competition to attract major investments.
Infrastructure Concerns and Investment Offers
The debate intensified after Google announced a $15 billion investment in Andhra Pradesh for a new data and AI hub. Karnataka Minister Priyank Kharge criticized the offer, suggesting it was an attempt to exploit the state’s infrastructure challenges. He alleged that Andhra Pradesh was offering substantial subsidies and waivers to lure businesses.
In response, Andhra Pradesh HRD Minister Nara Lokesh dismissed the criticism, stating that if Karnataka’s infrastructure issues were a concern, it was not Andhra Pradesh’s fault. He emphasized that his state had already attracted over $120 billion in investment, highlighting the rapid pace of reforms there.
Political Reactions and Public Sentiment
The exchange has also drawn criticism from Karnataka’s opposition parties. Former ally Janata Dal Secular (JDS) has rebuked the ruling Congress for failing to address issues like erratic electricity and water supply, contributing to the state’s infrastructure problems.
Additionally, a group of Bengaluru citizens has threatened to withhold property taxes unless the government addresses the city’s pothole problem. In response, Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar assured that efforts to fix potholes were progressing swiftly.