Karnataka Farmers Block Survey of India's First AI City Project in Bidadi

Women farmers in the Bidadi area of Karnataka confronted government officials conducting a joint measurement survey for the Greater Bengaluru Integrated Township, billed as India's first AI‑powered city. The protest took place in Mandalahalli village, where the farmers, many wielding broomsticks, forced the officials and accompanying police to retreat. Several police officers were injured and an FIR was lodged against the participants.

The township spans roughly 9,600 acres near Bengaluru and is projected to cost about Rs 18,133 crore, promising large‑scale investment and job creation. Farmers have been opposing the land acquisition for about 500 days, citing concerns over displacement and compensation. Union Minister of Steel and Heavy Industries H D Kumaraswamy condemned what he described as government high‑handedness and urged a peaceful resolution, while political opponents also criticized the survey as a dictatorial move.