Karnataka's Bidadi Integrated Township Project Advances Amid Farmer Protests
The Karnataka government, led by Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, is advancing the Greater Bengaluru Integrated Township (GBIT) project near Bidadi, a 7,481-9,640 acre AI-powered urban development aimed at creating jobs and easing Bengaluru's congestion. The project plans include residential, commercial, and innovation zones with sustainability features. However, farmers from surrounding districts oppose the project, citing land loss and lack of consent, with protests including rallies and objections. Opposition leaders have supported the farmers and challenged the government to public debates, while officials emphasize phased development and economic benefits.