A wake-up call to govt, says Hoekstra

A wake-up call to govt, says Hoekstra
Deccan Herald

The boycott by the IT compainies brings to light the failure of the government to adequately prepare themselves.

Do you think the IT companies are justified in boycotting the IT.In event slated for November? “Why not, when we contribute crores of rupees to State’s exchequer!” was the unanimous reply, when this question was floated to the techie clan by Deccan Herald on Monday.

According to industry sources, the IT industry comprising of nearly 150 companies contributes not less than Rs 450 crore as taxes - in the form of entry, special entry and profession tax - to the Karnataka government every year.

A total of Rs 10,000 crores is also given away as salaries to the thousands of employees working in the IT industry, which in turn creates a demand of Rs 16,000 crores for goods and services each year, according to industry sources.

Chief Executive Officer of Philips Software Mr Bob Hoekstra, said the Bangalore Chamber of Industry and Commerce’s decision about not participating in the event was completely justified, as the move would serve as the much-needed wake-up call for the government.

“We had contributed nearly Rs 35 crores as taxes last year to the Karnataka government. So, what is wrong in demanding basic amenities like roads, power supply and proper traffic management for our employees?,” he wondered.

The boycott also will draw attention to matters about the incompletion of both long term and short term projects.

“For instance, our existing airport should have good facilities like a proper waiting lounge, x-ray machines and a good cafeteria to begin with,” he added.

Mr Veera Raghavan, Managing Director of US-based Novell Software Development India laments that even something as simple as commuting to his office from the Silk Board Junction in Madiwala to Electronic City was becoming a pain-staking task. “There is no proper traffic management or an orderly committed to tackle the chaos that ensues every morning,” he said.

This is an expected development, when one looks at the dismal way the City is crippled after each down-pour, said Craig Chatterton, Country Manager of US-based software firm called Support Soft.

“This is not at all about IT. It is also about the citizens of Bangalore, including us, who are entitled to the basic rights like good roads and power supply,” he said.

Meanwhile, Tata Consultancy Services has consented to participate in the IT.in event by sponsoring the IT rural quiz, said its official spokesperson.