By Kavita Mistry 
The ongoing friction between industry leaders and the Karnataka government is in focus, with Biocon Executive Chairperson Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw and Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar at the forefront of a debate over Bengaluru’s civic amenities. Sparked by Mazumdar-Shaw’s comments on the city’s garbage and infrastructure problems, where she cited the progress of cities like Indore and Surat, the exchange has escalated. In response, Mr. Shivakumar stated, ‘You can’t kick the very ladder that helped you climb.’ He urged for collective effort rather than criticism, highlighting the government’s work on potholes and infrastructure. Mazumdar-Shaw defended her stance, clarifying that her criticism is directed at all past governments and is a call for accountability to fix decades of deteriorating infrastructure. The public debate also touched on the role of citizen intent in maintaining cleanliness and the responsibility of corporations.