Bengaluru, Dec 6 (Reporter) Karnataka BJP Chief Vijayendra Yediyurappa on Friday accused the state's Congress government of sabotaging the business of the Karnataka Milk Federation (KMF), renowned for its Nandini brand, to favour private sector rivals. The issue came to the firefront after the transfer of KMF Managing Director MK Jagadish. Jagadish, who had been overseeing the launch of Nandini’s new whey-based idli and dosa batter, was transferred amidst accusations from the BJP that the state government was deliberately undermining the Nandini brand to benefit a rival company which dominates the instant dosa batter market. "The sudden transfer of MK Jagadish, who was instrumental in expanding Nandini's market with innovative products like idli-dosa batter, raises serious doubts," Vijayendra alleged. He further questioned if the decision was politically motivated. The BJP also criticised the Congress government for allegedly spreading a "fake narrative" about Amul’s potential takeover of Nandini, further stoking fears that the Karnataka-based dairy brand is being undermined. KMF Chairman Bheema Naik defended the transfer, describing it as part of an effort for "administrative improvement." However, Naik's refusal to elaborate further on the reasons behind the move, combined with ongoing tensions between him and Jagadish, has fuelled speculation. The BJP has pointed to the timing of the transfer, noting that Nandini's new batter product could have posed a significant challenge to a private player, which holds 50 percent of the market share in the batter business. Dr Narendra Rangappa, BJP spokesperson, questioned the financial implications of the transfer, stressing that Nandini's new product could generate substantial revenue. Jagadish’s tenure at KMF was marked by aggressive expansion, including Nandini’s entry into new markets like Delhi and Dubai, and its sponsorship of international sports teams. Under his leadership, the brand regained popularity and launched several new products aimed at increasing market reach. As the controversy unfolds, BJP leaders have called for answers from Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and KMF Chairman Naik, demanding clarity on whether vested interests have influenced the decision that could impact the future of Karnataka’s iconic Nandini brand...////...