Karnataka High Court Demands Report on Rehabilitation for Kogilu Layout Demolition Victims
The Karnataka High Court has taken a significant step in addressing the plight of residents displaced by the demolition of structures in Bengaluru's Kogilu Layout. On Wednesday, the court directed the State Legal Services Authority (KSLSA) to submit a comprehensive report detailing the temporary rehabilitation measures implemented by the state government for those affected by the municipal corporation's actions in December 2025.
Court Appoints Amicus Curiae and Seeks Verification
A division bench comprising Chief Justice Vibhu Bakhru and Justice C M Poonacha appointed advocate B V Vidyulatha as amicus curiae to assist in the matter. The bench emphasized the need for thorough verification, stating, "What we propose to do is we will take her assistance with legal services authority and they will give us a report of the rehabilitation provided on a temporary basis and then we will verify all the records that you have of all the people that were displaced." This move underscores the court's commitment to ensuring accountability and transparency in the rehabilitation process.
Petitioners Seek Relief for Thousands Affected
The court's direction came in response to a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed by petitioners Zaiba Tabassum and others, who are seeking relief for approximately 3,000 people impacted by the demolition. The PIL demands:
- Rehabilitation and alternative accommodation within 5 km of the original site
- Compensation for what they term as an "illegal" demolition
- Writs declaring the action unconstitutional
- Action against officers involved in the demolition
The petitioners contested the state government's claim that only 167 families were affected, asserting that over 800 individuals require rehabilitation. The demolished structures were located on government land designated for solid waste management projects, adding complexity to the issue.
Allegations of Locked Shelters and Rights Violations
During the proceedings, the counsel for the petitioners raised alarming allegations regarding the temporary rehabilitation centers. They claimed that four centers provided by the state government were found locked when displaced residents attempted to access them. This situation has reportedly left people without essential food, shelter, and other facilities, which the petitioners argue constitutes a violation of their fundamental rights under the Constitution of India.
Government's Response and Court's Observations
Advocate General Shashi Kiran Shetty filed an affidavit outlining the rehabilitation measures undertaken by the state government, including provisions for food, temporary accommodation, and medicine. However, the bench noted the government's stance that in-situ rehabilitation at the same location is not feasible due to the storage of toxic affluent on the land. The court remarked, "We are prima facie persuaded to accept that in-situ rehabilitation in the given facts may not be feasible."
The matter has garnered political attention, with Karnataka BJP President B Y Vijayendra and other Opposition leaders recently staging protests in connection with the demolition. The case highlights ongoing tensions between development projects and the rights of vulnerable communities in urban areas.
The Karnataka High Court has scheduled the next hearing for February 9, where the KSLSA report and further submissions will be examined to ensure justice for the displaced residents of Kogilu Layout.
