Mohandas Pai meets DCM to discuss Bengaluru’s civic issues

Businessman and philanthropist T V Mohandas Pai met Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar on Saturday to address the pressing civic concerns in Bengaluru. Pai, chairman of Manipal Global Education Services, visited Shivakumar at his Sadashivanagar residence, emphasizing the need for better infrastructure, including roads, footpaths, and metro expansion.

Following the meeting, Pai stated, “Bengaluru is a global city and a science hub. We need comprehensive development, and Shivakumar assured us that significant improvements will be made within six months.” He highlighted Bengaluru’s rapid growth, home to 65,000 IT companies, 25,000 startups, and 45 unicorns. “With a per capita income of $15,000 and software exports of $80-85 billion, Bengaluru remains India’s richest city,” he added. The 1.5-hour discussion focused on Bengaluru’s challenges amid its rapid expansion. Pai noted that while some appreciate his views, others criticize him. “No other Indian city prioritizes development like Bengaluru. Kannadigas deserve better opportunities, and our city must continue growing,” he said.

He emphasized Bengaluru’s global reputation, mentioning inquiries from American associates about its progress. When asked about his political stance, Pai clarified, “I have criticized every ruling government, including former Chief Ministers Basavaraj Bommai and Yediyurappa, for corruption and inefficiency.” He stressed that discussing Bengaluru’s development is every citizen’s right. Earlier, Pai supported Shivakumar after criticism over his visit to an Isha Yoga Centre on Mahashivratri, defending religious freedom in India. Meanwhile, the AICC secretary, P V Mohan, expressed discontent, stating that Shivakumar’s actions “damage the party’s core.”