'Can't speak Kannada, come to...': CEO's hiring post sparks controversy
What's the story
Cars24 CEO Vikram Chopra has sparked a controversy with his recent post on X. The post was addressed to people living in Bengaluru who are looking for jobs. His post said, "Still can't speak Kannada after years in Bengaluru? It's okay. Aa jao Dilli," meaning one should come to Delhi. The message has triggered a debate on linguistic identity and workplace inclusivity.
Public response
Mixed reactions to Chopra's post
Chopra's post has drawn a mixed reaction from the public. While some saw it as a funny way to attract potential employees, others found it disrespectful toward the Kannada language. One user even asked if Chopra was specifically looking for North Indians or Delhiites to join his team, while another asked people to look at crime statistics before calling Delhi-NCR better.
Twitter Post
Take a look at Chopra's post
We are not saying Delhi NCR is better. Only that it
— Vikram Chopra (@vikramchopra) December 19, 2024really is. come back, write to me at vikram@cars24.com with the subject - Delhi meri jaan ♥️ pic.twitter.com/lgQpXMiaKt
If you wish to
Previous remarks
Chopra's past criticism of Delhi resurfaces
The controversy over Chopra's post was further stoked when a user dug out an old post of the CEO himself, criticizing Delhi. In a 2009 post, Chopra had written that dealing with people in Delhi was difficult. The revelation added another dimension to the raging debate over his recent social media message.
Twitter Post
'Hype up people and culture, not any city'
I don’t think any Indian metro city is worth hyping up. You could hype up the people and the culture, but not the city. That’s where Bangalore actually wins and Delhi loses.
— Rohan (@RohanParikh21) December 20, 2024
Twitter Post
Netizens also highlighted Delhi's pollution levels
Come back and smell the fumes pic.twitter.com/PPTFeQKM6H
— Amitesh Jasrotia (@bookjelly) December 19, 2024
Language promotion
Karnataka CM's call for Kannada adoption
Amid this controversy, it is important to note that last year, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah had made a strong appeal to create a "Kannada atmosphere" across the state. He had urged all Karnataka residents to use Kannada in their daily lives, adding that it is every Kannadiga's duty to safeguard the Kannada language, land, and water.
Post defense
Supporters defend Chopra's post
Despite the backlash, some of Chopra's supporters defended his post as an acknowledgment of the difficulties faced by non-Kannada speakers in Bengaluru. One user on X even praised him for his initiative, emphasizing the importance of employees living near their families.
Twitter Post
"Win-win for everyone"
We totally support this, win-win for everyone. 👍
— Ananda N (@AnandaSN8) December 19, 2024