US consulate in Bengaluru: Credit war erupts between Congress and BJP

Karnataka deputy CM and KPCC president DK Shivakumar with Bengaluru South MP Tejasvi Surya

A credit war has erupted between the Congress and BJP over the upcoming US consulate in Bengaluru, following US ambassador to India Eric Garcetti’s confirmation that the consulate is likely to open in January 2025.

Speaking at an interactive session hosted by the US-India Business Council (USIBC) in New Delhi, Garcetti said, “We are committed to seeing our commitment to opening up the Bengaluru consulate, hopefully in January.”

He said that Bengaluru is the only major Indian city without a US consulate and highlighted the presence of the Foreign Commercial Service in the city as a precursor to this development.

Also, read: MP Tejasvi Surya calls setting up of US Consulate in Bengaluru 'historic' milestone for city

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah shared his enthusiasm on X (formerly Twitter): “Karnataka’s global aspirations are taking flight! In September, I urged US Ambassador Mr. Eric Garcetti to establish a US Consulate in Bengaluru. Today, it’s heartening to see the US reaffirming its commitment to make this a reality by January 2025.” He added, “A US Consulate in Bengaluru will bolster Karnataka’s global connectivity, enhance trade, attract investments, and make visa services more accessible for our people. Bengaluru’s rise as a global hub continues.”

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Karnataka Minister for Electronics, IT/BT, and Rural Development Priyank Kharge also weighed in, stating: “Delivered as promised! Over the past few years, I’ve engaged in discussions with US representatives, emphasising the need for a consulate in Bengaluru. It’s gratifying to see these efforts come to fruition.”

Kharge elaborated on the broader vision for Karnataka, including establishing sister-city partnerships between US cities and Karnataka’s urban centers to drive growth in sectors such as commerce, education, healthcare, and technology. “This isn’t just talk—it’s Congress ke Kaam Ki Baat, not Mann Ki Baat” he wrote on X.

Also, read: Karnataka govt will support setting up US Consulate in Bengaluru, says IT Minister Kharge

BJP youth leader and Bengaluru South MP Tejasvi Surya countered the Congress’s claims by highlighting his role in advocating for the consulate. “Big update for Bengalureans—January date set for the establishment of the US Consulate in Namma Ooru,” Surya wrote on X.

Surya recounted his efforts since 2019, including writing to Union External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and meeting with former US Ambassador Kenneth Juster. He credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi for giving the final push during his US visit in 2023. “This marks a milestone moment for Bengaluru. Grateful to PM Modi Ji and S Jaishankar for their relentless support,” Surya added.

Currently, the US operates consulates in Chennai, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Mumbai, and New Delhi. The addition of the Bengaluru consulate is part of a broader expansion plan, which includes another consulate in Ahmedabad.

Also, read: US intends to open consulates in Bengaluru, Ahmedabad and India in Seattle: White House