Controversy Surrounds Bengaluru's AI City Project: A Farmer's Plight

BJP leader R Ashoka has labeled the land acquisition for the proposed Greater Bengaluru Integrated Township (GBIT) as 'illegal,' urging the Karnataka government to reconsider its plans immediately.

This comes amid protests from farmers in the Bengaluru South (Ramanagara) district, where the acquisition is underway. During one protest in Bhairamangala, a dramatic moment unfolded as two farmers attempted to consume pesticide, though they were stopped by police and onlookers.

The GBIT, planned as an AI City, is being developed as a second central business district for Bengaluru but involves acquiring significant agricultural land, impacting local farmers. Ashoka criticized state officials for pursuing fertile land instead of already acquired but vacant sites and vowed BJP's support for the farmers' cause.

(With inputs from agencies.)