Synopsis: Tensions escalate on social media as Karnataka’s Industries Minister MB Patil and BJP MP Tejasvi Surya clash over the attribution of the KWIN City project. Surya attributes the project to former CM Bommai’s vision, whereas Patil maintains that it is a fresh undertaking by the current government, refuting Surya’s assertions.
A dispute arose between Karnataka’s Industries Minister, MB Patil, and BJP MP Tejasvi Surya on social media regarding the KWIN City project (Knowledge, Wellness & Innovation). Initially a gesture of praise, the situation escalated into a heated exchange over the project’s credit allocation between the BJP and Congress.
On October 19, the youthful BJP MP Surya shared his discussion with the Consul-General of Singapore in Chennai concerning the imminent KWIN City close to Bengaluru. Patil promptly acknowledged Surya’s initiatives and called on all MPs to advocate for additional projects in the state. “I encourage all MPs to exert more influence to facilitate the acquisition of additional projects for the State, particularly striving for the establishment of at least one semiconductor plant,” Patil remarked on X.
In alignment with Patil’s viewpoint, Surya concurred that “development initiatives should transcend partisan lines.” Nevertheless, the youthful BJP parliamentarian promptly highlighted that the inspiration for the city’s progress originated from the former Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai, supporting his statement with excerpts from news reports. Commending Patil for advancing and materializing the vision established by the previous BJP administration led by CM Shri @BSBommai, he remarked, “Truly commendable efforts!” He further emphasized that this serves as a remarkable model for the nation, demonstrating that despite leadership changes, Karnataka maintains policy coherence, underscoring the political sophistication of the state.
Patil was displeased by this, criticizing 33-year-old Surya and advising him to avoid getting involved in “trivial politics.” The minister pointed out, “I was already a Member of Parliament when you were in kindergarten. I held positions as a Legislator even before you were born. I was the youngest member in both the parliament and assembly at that time.
There was no definitive proposal for a ‘Knowledge City’ from the ex-CM Bommai according to Patil. Patil challenged Bommai on X, saying, “I will step down if you can present the plan and its whereabouts. Otherwise, I expect your resignation.” Furthermore, he encouraged Surya to request PM Narendra Modi to grant “Karnataka’s fair portion of resources and to establish a semiconductor plant.” Patil criticized the BJP for merely announcing projects on paper without implementing them.
Upon his return, Surya reassured that there was no reason to be so worked up, as the tweet was intended positively. Additionally, he disclosed a portion of Bommai’s interview where a comparable perspective on the current state of KWIN City was shared. Responding to the senior politician, he expressed his disapproval of the disparaging remarks about his age, emphasizing that ageism is just as unacceptable as racism. Surya urged for a more composed approach in future interactions.
Patil concurred, acknowledging that Bommai and past administrations had strategies for satellite and knowledge cities. However, he emphasized that KWIN City represents a fresh undertaking by the present Siddaramaiah government. He added, “…encompassing an area that had been designated as a “general industrial area” even prior to Sh. Bommai’s term.
