Bengaluru: Karnataka’s Deputy Chief Minister, DK Shivakumar, has unequivocally clarified that a letter circulating on social media, which urges Foxconn to relocate its Apple AirPod manufacturing plant from Hyderabad to Bengaluru, is a fraudulent document. Shivakumar went on record to state, “The letter circulating on social media, which says that I wrote to Foxconn to relocate the Apple AirPod manufacturing plant from Hyderabad to Bengaluru, is fake. An FIR has been lodged at the Cybercrime Police Station in this regard.”
The two-page letter, purportedly authored by Shivakumar and addressed to Young Lu, Chairman of Hon Hai Precision Industry (Foxconn Technology Group), suggests, “On behalf of the government, I propose that you consider relocating the Apple AirPods industry, which you plan to set up in Hyderabad, to Bengaluru. This move holds numerous mutual benefits. Not only will it complement the Apple phone manufacturing industry, but it will also leverage the city’s transportation facilities, infrastructure, and available workforce.”
The letter continues, “Being located in Bangalore will also enhance your international recognition. Furthermore, several international industries in Hyderabad have expressed interest in relocating to Bengaluru. We anticipate forming a friendly government in Telangana soon, assuring that you will encounter no hindrances there. Hence, it would be mutually beneficial for your ancillary industry to make the move as well.”
The authorities have taken the matter seriously, and an investigation is underway to identify the source of this fabricated communication. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the need for vigilance and fact-checking in the age of digital information dissemination.
