Political Row Over Bengaluru Infrastructure
The bharatiya janata party (BJP) has criticised the Congress-led karnataka government for seeking assistance from wipro founder Azim Premji to address Bengaluru’s infrastructure challenges.
The criticism comes amid growing public dissatisfaction over pothole-ridden roads, traffic congestion, and inadequate urban mobility solutions.
Chief minister Siddaramaiah and deputy chief minister DK Shivakumar reportedly reached out to Premji for support in improving civic infrastructure.
BJP’s Allegations of “Begging”
Chaluvadi Narayanaswamy, leader of Opposition in the karnataka Legislative Council, accused the state government of “begging” for help rather than resolving civic issues through its own resources.
Narayanaswamy argued that the congress government’s approach reflects a lack of administrative and financial capability.
He suggested that the government’s reliance on external assistance places an unnecessary burden on Bengaluru’s residents.
According to NDTV, the bjp claims citizens are forced to bear the consequences of the government’s inability to implement practical solutions.
Azim Premji Declines Request
Premji responded to Siddaramaiah’s outreach, expressing Wipro’s willingness to collaborate on long-term urban mobility projects.
However, he declined the specific request to open Wipro’s sarjapur campus for public vehicle access.
Premji explained that the campus falls within a Special Economic Zone (SEZ) and is subject to strict international service obligations and access restrictions, making public access legally and operationally unfeasible.
Legal and Practical Constraints
In his letter, Premji highlighted the “significant legal, governance, and statutory challenges” associated with allowing public movement through Wipro’s private property.
He emphasised that while wipro is committed to supporting urban development, opening the campus for vehicles was not a practical option.
Premji acknowledged the severe traffic congestion along Bengaluru’s Outer Ring Road, particularly near the Iblur junction, which affects commuting times and business productivity.
Political Implications
Narayanaswamy stated that Premji’s refusal underscores the practical limitations imposed by SEZ regulations.
The incident has intensified political scrutiny over the state government’s capacity to manage Bengaluru’s infrastructure independently.
BJP leaders argue that relying on private companies instead of government mechanisms demonstrates an administrative shortfall and fuels public dissatisfaction
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