Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka Engage in Online Battle for Investment

A digital war of words has erupted between Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh as both states vie for investments and the attention of global firms. The public spat, primarily unfolding on social media platform X, features prominent political figures from both regions. Nara Lokesh, IT minister of Andhra Pradesh, initiated the debate by criticizing Bengaluru’s infrastructure, particularly its roads. He invited companies to relocate to Andhra Pradesh. This prompted a response from Priyank Kharge, Karnataka’s IT minister, and Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar. The conflict highlights issues such as Bengaluru’s pothole-ridden roads and the government’s efforts to address them. Lokesh has been promoting Andhra Pradesh as an alternative for IT companies and startups, citing the benefits of relocating to Ananthapur. Kharge countered by highlighting Karnataka’s economic growth and potential. The situation is further complicated by the states’ differing political affiliations, with Andhra Pradesh being a key ally of the ruling NDA government at the center and Karnataka governed by the Congress.