T V Mohandas Pai, ex-Infosys CFO and Aarin Capital chairman, urged on Saturday that Bengaluru needs robust infrastructure and a capable minister to cement its status as ‘Brand Bengaluru.’ After meeting Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar, who manages the city’s development portfolio, Pai pressed for action to match Bengaluru’s global reputation.

“Bengaluru deserves a leader like Shivakumar to become India’s top city,” Pai told reporters. With a per capita income of USD 15,000, he hailed Bengaluru as India’s wealthiest metropolis, a hub for startups and science. He demanded cleaner streets, walkable footpaths, improved public transport, and faster Metro rail progress. Shivakumar pledged visible improvements within six months, Pai revealed.

Rejecting claims of bias against Congress governments, the Padma Shri awardee cited his critiques of past leaders like Basavaraj Bommai and Dharam Singh. He lauded Karnataka’s responsive politics, noting chief ministers historically engaged him after criticism—a contrast to other states. “Here, feedback sparks dialogue, not threats,” he said.

Pai brushed off accusations of tarnishing Bengaluru’s image. “It pains me to see its decline,” he admitted, citing calls from Europe and the U.S. questioning the city’s state. He spotlighted the Outer Ring Road, hosting Fortune 500 firms and 10 lakh workers, as a critical area needing upgrades.

In a heated social media exchange with Minister Priyank Kharge, Pai demanded accountability for potholes, corruption, and transport woes over the past two years. “I’ve championed Bengaluru for 30 years—more than you,” he shot back. Kharge defended Congress’s economic vision, urging Pai to push for Karnataka’s dues from the Centre. Pai remained steadfast, calling for results to match Bengaluru’s potential.