“CEO’s Hiring Post ‘Can’t Speak Kannada? Come To Delhi’ Stirs Controversy”

Cars24 CEO’s Post on Moving to Delhi Sparks Debate Over Linguistic Sensitivities

New Delhi: A recent social media post by Vikram Chopra, CEO of Cars24, has ignited controversy for its remarks on language and cultural identity. The post, shared on X (formerly Twitter), invited professionals living in Bengaluru to consider relocating to Delhi-NCR with a lighthearted comment that many found divisive.

The post read: “Still can’t speak Kannada after years in Bengaluru? It’s okay. Aa jao Dilli (come to Delhi). We are not saying Delhi NCR is better. Only that it really is. If you wish to come back, write to me with the subject – Delhi meri jaan.”

While some viewed the message as a casual and humorous recruitment pitch, others criticized it for appearing to trivialize Kannada and promoting regional bias.

Social Media Backlash
Critics accused Mr. Chopra of insensitivity toward Bengaluru’s linguistic and cultural identity.

“This is probably not the message you would want to post in a hiring call. So basically, you want north Indians/Delhiites in your team? The rest of the folks?” questioned a social media user.

Another comment pointed out Delhi-NCR’s challenges: “Delhi NCR has its charm, but before calling it ‘better,’ let’s take a moment to consider the reality. A look at the crime data might offer a different perspective. Think twice before making the move.”

Adding fuel to the debate, a user unearthed an old tweet from 2009 where Mr. Chopra criticized Delhi’s social environment, saying: “The most difficult thing in Delhi is to deal with its people.”

Kannada Advocacy and Response
The issue touches on a larger discourse surrounding linguistic inclusivity in Karnataka. Last year, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah urged all residents to embrace Kannada in their daily lives, calling it a fundamental duty of every Kannadiga to protect the state’s language and culture.

“It is the responsibility of every Kannadiga to protect the Kannada language, land, and water,” Mr. Siddaramaiah said, emphasizing that non-native residents should make a conscious effort to learn and use Kannada.

Supporters of the Post
Not everyone saw Mr. Chopra’s message in a negative light. Supporters defended the post, framing it as an acknowledgment of the challenges non-Kannada speakers face in Bengaluru.

“I compliment you for this initiative. It’s important that those who work live close to their families,” one user commented.

The Broader Debate
This incident highlights the ongoing tension between workplace inclusivity and regional identity. While companies increasingly strive for diversity and openness, they must also navigate sensitivities tied to local cultures and languages.

As the debate continues online, the Cars24 CEO has yet to issue a response to the criticism or clarify his intent behind the post.

Sources By Agencies

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