TL/DR –
The Karnataka government has been criticised for allowing dairy brand Amul to open kiosks at 10 Metro stations in Bengaluru, instead of the state-run brand Nandini. The opposition BJP and JDS condemned the decision, accusing the ruling Congress of failing to promote the state-run brand and Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar of selling his self-respect for commission. Following the backlash, Mr. Shivakumar responded stating that Amul had been the only applicant and confirmed that Nandini outlets would be opened in eight of the Metro stations.
Bengaluru Opposition Criticises State for Permitting Amul Kiosks in Metro Stations
The Karnataka government is facing criticism from the opposition BJP and JDS for permitting Gujarat-based Amul to establish kiosks at 10 Metro stations in Bengaluru. The opposition alleges that this move undermines the promotion of the state-run brand Nandini.
Bengaluru Metro Rail Corporation Limited approved Amul to set up the kiosks after a tender process. However, the opposition claims that these 10 kiosks should have been awarded to the Karnataka Milk Federation-run Nandini.
The Janata Dal (Secular), a former ally of the ruling Congress, criticized Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar and the Congress party for “selling their self-respect for commission” and for using the Nandini brand to secure votes in the 2023 Assembly election.
“Before the 2023 election, DK used to assert that the self-respect of Kannadigas was not for sale. Today, he has permitted milk products from other states in exchange for commission.”
The BJP’s PC Mohan also weighed in, accusing the Congress of hypocrisy. He said they accused the BJP of favouring outsiders before the election, but are now allowing it themselves.
“Congress falsely accused BJP of favouring outsiders ahead of the 2023 Karnataka Assembly election. Now, they have allowed Amul kiosks at 10 Metro stations, displacing Nandini. A classic case of hypocrisy.”
In response to the backlash, Mr Shivakumar said Amul was the only applicant. He also stated that the Karnataka Milk Federation will open Nandini outlets in eight of the 10 Metro stations. He clarified that existing Amul outlets will not be shut down and has instructed KMF to submit its application to BMRCL.
The controversy over Amul versus Nandini was a critical issue in the 2023 election. The Congress accused the then ruling BJP at both the state and central level of undermining Nandini by supporting Amul. This issue has once again come to light with the recent allocation of kiosks.
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