BMRCL clarifies stance on Amul Stores in Namma Metro Stations

Bengaluru

The Bengaluru Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) is facing public backlash over its agreement with Gujarat Cooperative Milk Marketing Federation Ltd. (Amul) to open kiosks in 10 prominent Namma Metro stations. Reports circulating about Amul being granted eight locations and KMF (Karnataka Milk Federation) only two have caused considerable confusion among the public. In response, Yashwanth, BMRCL's Chief Public Relations Officer, issued a clarification during a press conference on Wednesday.

Yashwanth stated, "The stores in Namma Metro stations were allocated through a tender process. Amul participated in this tender and secured 10 locations. Previously, Nandini (KMF) stores were present at M.G. Road, Mahalakshmi Layout, and Vijayanagar. Currently, only the Vijayanagar store remains, as the other two were removed for various reasons."

He emphasized that Nandini will also be given opportunities if they participate in tenders. "No one is more important to us than anyone else. The tender for these 10 stores is for five years, at a monthly rent of ₹7 lakh per store. KMF did not participate in the recent tender we floated," he clarified.

Reports indicate that Amul stores are slated to open at Pattandur Agrahara, Indiranagar, Benniganahalli, Byappanahalli, Trinity, Sir M. Visvesvaraya, Majestic, National College, Jayanagar, and Banashankari stations.

An Amul store has already opened its doors at the Vivekananda Metro Station. This development has drawn strong criticism from leaders of the BJP and JDS, who argue that it is a significant injustice to KMF's Nandini brand. They question why Amul is being given preference when Karnataka has its own robust KMF Nandini.

Public sentiment on social media also mirrors this opposition, with users asking why BMRCL is favoring a Gujarat-based company like Amul when KMF Nandini is a strong local brand, and why Amul products are being prioritized.