Priyank was told he can’t travel to the US two weeks ago

Bengaluru: IT-BT minister Priyank Kharge was told by the ministry of external affairs two weeks ago that he will not be allowed to travel to the United States Bio 2025 convention in Boston, but he reportedly chose not to make the development public to avoid controversy surrounding the high-profile event.

In Priyank's absence, the delegation is being led by Keonics chairman and Congress legislator Sharath Bachegowda, who is currently participating in meetings across the US. Sources in the IT department said the ministry of external affairs (MEA) delayed clearances for the rest of the team as well, only approving some just hours before their scheduled departure. One official revealed that the managing director of Keonics received clearance just 16 hours before his flight.

Speaking to TOI from Paris, where he is attending the Paris Air Show, Priyank said he has not yet received an official explanation from the MEA regarding the denial. "I am yet to receive a clear communication on reasons for denying me permission to travel to the US. Once I return to India, I will share whatever explanation the central govt provides," he said.

Meanwhile, Bachegowda, speaking from New York, admitted Kharge's absence is a huge blow especially during the delegation's engagements. "We have told companies that the minister could not attend due to prior commitments and time constraints," he said.

Despite the setback, Bachegowda described the US tour as productive. After participating in Bio 2025 in Boston, the six-member delegation held a series of meetings in New York and is now en route to San Francisco for additional interactions with key players in the IT-BT sector. "We have scheduled 25 to 30 meetings with small and large companies to attract investments into Karnataka," he said.

The delegation is expected to return to India by Sunday (June 22).