Mohandas Pai Seeks Special Funds for Bengaluru, Criticizes Karnataka Freebies
Mohandas Pai, chairman of Aarin Capital and former Infosys CFO, on Wednesday called for special funds for Bengaluru in the Union Budget 2026-27. He argued that the city has suffered under the Siddaramaiah-led government, which he said gave away ₹60,000-70,000 crore in unnecessary freebies, hindering the metropolis’s growth and development.
Pai also criticized the state government’s decision to reintroduce ballot papers for Bengaluru’s 2026 local body elections, calling it “absurd” and a reflection of a mindset that risks harming the city’s international reputation. He emphasized that Bengaluru, as a leading global tech hub, should not be pushed backwards by such policy decisions.
Despite his criticisms, Pai praised Chief Minister Siddaramaiah as an “extraordinary” political leader and a role model for his rise from humble beginnings to becoming Karnataka’s longest-serving CM. He highlighted Siddaramaiah’s hard work, determination, and compassion as qualities that have defined his leadership.
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