Karnataka Minister Seeks Clarification on US Delegation Denial

Karnataka's IT Minister Priyank Kharge is seeking answers from the Ministry of External Affairs after his request to lead a delegation to the US for investment opportunities was denied. He plans to involve Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Prime Minister Modi in the discussion, questioning the implications of such refusals on the state's investment potential. Kharge's concerns extend to similar denials faced by ministers from other southern states, raising questions about the government's approach to attracting investments. This situation highlights the ongoing political dynamics affecting state-level initiatives.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 20, 2025, 09:44 IST

Minister's Response to Denial of US Visit

On Thursday, Karnataka's Minister for Information Technology, Priyank Kharge, announced plans to contact the Ministry of External Affairs for clarification after his request to lead a delegation to the United States was denied, as reported by a local news outlet.

Kharge, who is part of the Congress-led state government, indicated that he would also urge Chief Minister Siddaramaiah to discuss the issue with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The minister had aimed to travel to the US from June 14 to June 27, with his department arranging meetings with various companies and think tanks in New York and Boston.

After Siddaramaiah approved the delegation in May, the proposal was submitted to the Ministry of External Affairs on May 15. However, it faced rejection on June 4, according to Kharge.

Kharge expressed his confusion over the lack of a solid justification for the denial, stating that the ministry did not provide any reasons.

On June 6, he modified the proposal by removing his name and submitting it solely for the delegation of officers, which was subsequently approved on June 11.

On June 12, Kharge proposed that Sharath Bachegowda, the chairperson of Karnataka's electronics development corporation and an MLA, lead the delegation instead, which received clearance by June 14.

Kharge suggested that there seems to be a recurring issue with such refusals, questioning how investments could be attracted to Karnataka if ministers are not present at key events. He remarked, “If the government believes Karnataka cannot deliver, then who can?”

He also noted that ministers from other southern states, including Telangana and Tamil Nadu, have faced similar denials, despite the Congress party being in power in Telangana and the Tamil Nadu government being led by an ally.

Kharge plans to ask the chief minister to reach out to the prime minister regarding this matter, emphasizing that the situation is unhealthy. He stated, “As the Government of India, you have every right to correct us. However, without a valid reason, we will view this as political maneuvering.”