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Suspense crime, Digital Desk : A familiar feud has been reignited in Karnataka’s capital. The “Dairy Wars” between Gujarat’s Amul and Karnataka’s home-grown brand Nandini are back in the spotlight after Amul was granted permission to set up kiosks in 10 prominent Bengaluru Metro stations.

This move has reawakened a politically charged controversy that had previously engulfed the state. Just last year, Amul’s announcement of its entry into Bengaluru’s fresh milk market sparked a massive “Save Nandini” campaign. The issue was framed as a battle for Karnataka’s pride and the livelihood of its dairy farmers against a powerful “outsider.” The Congress party, then in opposition, fiercely led the protests against the BJP government, accusing it of trying to undermine the local cooperative.

Now, with the political tables turned, the Congress government finds itself in an awkward position. Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) awarded the tender for kiosks at high-traffic stations like Indiranagar, MG Road, and Nagasandra to Amul. This has handed the BJP, now in opposition, the perfect opportunity to accuse the government of hypocrisy.

The Karnataka government has defended the decision, stating that it was the result of an open and fair tender process. They argue that they cannot legally block a company from participating in a public tender just because it is from another state. The Karnataka Milk Federation (KMF), which owns the Nandini brand, also has a significant presence across the metro network, operating 78 kiosks of its own.

However, this commercial decision is being viewed through a sharp political lens. For many, it’s not just about selling milk and ice cream. It’s a deeply emotional issue tied to regional identity and economic security for local farmers.

The return of this conflict shows that in Karnataka, the rivalry between Amul and Nandini is more than just business competition—it’s a potent mix of politics, pride, and commerce that can erupt at any moment.

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