Mohandas Pai, the former Chief Financial Officer of Infosys and a well-known venture  capitalist, has appealed to the central government to allocate “special funds” for  Bengaluru in the upcoming Union Budget for 2026. In a recent video interview with the  news agency PTI, Pai emphasised that India’s technology capital urgently needs  dedicated financial support to address its persistent infrastructure and governance  challenges. 

With Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman scheduled to unveil the Union Budget  on February 1, Pai expressed optimism that the Centre would recognise Bengaluru’s  economic significance through specific financial allocations. 

Critique of Karnataka Government’s Spending Focus 

Pai did not hold back in his criticism of the Congress-led Karnataka government,  accusing it of overlooking Bengaluru’s needs while focusing on welfare schemes. He  claimed that the state had spent between ₹60,000 crore and ₹70,000 crore on what he  referred to as “so-called guarantees,” arguing that nearly half of this expenditure was  unnecessary. 

He pointed out that such spending has diminished the funds available for enhancing  infrastructure and public services in Bengaluru, a city that plays a crucial role in India’s  technology sector. 

Opposition to the Proposal for Paper Ballots 

Pai also voiced strong opposition to the state government’s reported intention to  reintroduce paper ballots for the 2026 Bengaluru City Corporation elections, describing  the move as outdated and inappropriate for a global technology hub.

“Bengaluru is the leading tech city in the world, with a vast number of professionals in  the technology sector. To take the city backward with paper ballots is simply absurd,”  Pai remarked, cautioning that such decisions could tarnish Bengaluru’s international  reputation. 

Concerns About Governance and Global Standing 

Pai expressed that proposals like reverting to paper ballots indicate a concerning  mindset among those in power. He urged the Karnataka government to concentrate on  enhancing governance, infrastructure, and urban planning instead of adopting  regressive measures that could undermine the city’s global stature. 

Praise for Siddaramaiah’s Political Journey 

Despite his criticisms, Pai acknowledged Chief Minister Siddaramaiah as an  “extraordinary” political leader and a source of inspiration. He commended  Siddaramaiah’s journey from modest beginnings without political connections,  attributing his achievements to hard work, intelligence, and determination. 

Previous Warnings on Bengaluru’s Infrastructure 

Pai’s remarks come amid increasing concerns from industry leaders regarding  Bengaluru’s infrastructure. Last September, he joined Biocon founder Kiran Mazumdar Shaw in highlighting issues related to poor road conditions and civic amenities near  Google India’s office. 

Mazumdar-Shaw’s comments, which included insights from a visiting foreign executive,  sparked a broader discussion about the city’s infrastructure challenges. 

Government Response and Repair Initiatives 

Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar, responsible for Bengaluru’s development,  acknowledged the existing challenges but called for a collaborative approach rather  than constant criticism. He announced that ₹1,100 crore has been allocated for road  repairs, with over 10,000 potholes identified and more than 5,000 prioritised for repair. 

Under the Greater Bengaluru Authority, Shivakumar mentioned that local bodies, such  as the East Corporation, would retain significant revenues to directly enhance  infrastructure in key IT corridors. 

Industry Leaders Recognise Recent Improvements 

A month later, both Pai and Mazumdar-Shaw commended Shivakumar’s leadership,  crediting him for taking decisive action to tackle issues related to garbage, debris, and  potholes throughout the city. Officials from the Greater Bengaluru Authority reported  that nearly 18,000 potholes have been filled as part of the ongoing repair initiative.