Bidadi AI City Row: Karnataka's Mega AI Project Faces Environmental Heat

Karnataka's ambitious Bidadi AI City project has sparked a major political and environmental controversy. Promoted by Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar as a future-ready technology hub, the project promises investments, jobs and AI-driven growth. However, critics claim the development could come at a massive ecological cost, with estimates suggesting over 2 lakh trees and lakhs of agricultural plants may be affected. Farmers, environmental activists and opposition leaders have raised concerns over land acquisition and environmental impact. The BJP has targeted Congress and Rahul Gandhi over the issue, while the state government insists the project is vital for Karnataka's future. The debate now pits development against environmental conservation.