Recent criticism of Bengaluru’s infrastructural deficiencies has sparked an uproar from Biocon chairperson Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw. Reacting to the debate on Wednesday, she said she was a “proud Kannadiga” and expressed her love for Kannada culture.
In a post on X, Mazumdar-Shaw confirmed that she was born in Bengaluru. She added that she has spent seven decades loving her city and its culture. She confirmed that she could read, write and speak “this wonderful language”. “I don’t think I will answer to anyone who questions my loyalty to Karnataka. I am a proud Kannadiga,” she wrote.
The clarification followed her strong criticism on October 15 of the urgent need for better infrastructure and waste management in the city.
She directly blamed past administrations for the current dire situation and called on the current government to act quickly to address what amounted to decades of neglect.
In a post, X Shaw wrote: “We are in this dire situation because past governments have not acted in time. This government has an opportunity to change that and act quickly to fix these decades of deteriorating infrastructure and waste management.”
She added that all she is seeking is the clearing of waste and the resurfacing of the road, which should be done by the GBA. “Government ministers must hold them accountable. They must be held accountable for shoddy, slow work.”
After Shaw criticized the city’s road infrastructure, several social media users trolled her and questioned her loyalty to Karnataka.
Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar reacts
Responding to her remarks, Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar highlighted the government’s ongoing efforts to improve the city.
He noted that the creation of East Bengaluru Corporation was intended to support IT firms by improving traffic flow and road conditions.
“To help IT companies for better traffic, better roads, we have formed East Bengaluru Corporation,” said Shivakumar.
On 18 October, Shivakumar also attacked Mazumdar-Shaw, suggesting that she could undertake the necessary developments herself if she wished.
“If she wants to develop them (roads), let her do it. If she comes and asks, we will give her roads,” Shivakumar said while conducting the ‘Bengaluru Nadige (Walk for Bengaluru)’ program in the KR Puram area.
Shaw subsequently met Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and his deputy DK Shivakumar on Tuesday to offer Deepavali greetings and pledge her full cooperation and support for the betterment of Bengaluru.
About his meeting with Biocon chairperson Shivakumar said, “We discussed Bengaluru. She promised to support development work in Bengaluru and not tarnish its image. I will visit the area and hold meetings on Wednesday or Thursday.”
“The IT-BT industry has provided support for the development of Bengaluru. We will also discuss with the companies and take necessary action.”
(Tattranslate)Kiran mazumdar-shaw
