Karnataka Forest Minister Eshwar Khandre on Monday hit back at former Chief Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy over the HMT land controversy, displaying images that showed a forest-like landscape on the property. Khandre asserted that the Centre has already accepted the land as forest, countering Kumaraswamy's challenge to prove the presence of greenery.
Background of the HMT Land Dispute
The HMT land in Bengaluru's Jalahalli area has been at the center of a political tug-of-war. The state government plans to develop it into a lung space similar to Cubbon Park, but Kumaraswamy has opposed the move, claiming the land is not dense forest and questioning the government's intentions. Kumaraswamy had earlier dared Khandre to show visuals of the land's greenery.
Khandre's Response with Visual Evidence
Responding to the challenge, Khandre released recent photographs and satellite images depicting thick vegetation on the 150-acre plot. He stated that the Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change has already classified the land as a deemed forest, based on a 2023 report by the Karnataka Forest Department. According to Khandre, the Centre's acceptance validates the state's position.
"The images clearly show the land is covered with trees and shrubs. It is not barren as some claim. The Centre has officially recognized it as forest, and we are committed to preserving it," Khandre said during a press conference.
Political Implications
The row has escalated into a political battle between the Congress government and the opposition JD(S). Kumaraswamy has accused the government of misusing the land for political gains, while Khandre insists the development plan is eco-friendly. The minister emphasized that the proposed lung space would benefit Bengaluru's residents, who are grappling with pollution and shrinking green cover.
Khandre also criticized Kumaraswamy for making "baseless allegations" and challenged him to visit the site. "He is welcome to see the greenery himself. We have nothing to hide," Khandre added.
Future Plans for the Land
The state government aims to transform the HMT land into a public park with walking trails, native plant species, and water conservation features. Khandre assured that no commercial activities would be allowed, and the forest-like character would be maintained. The project is part of a broader initiative to increase Bengaluru's green cover, which has declined by 30% over the past decade, according to a 2025 report by the Indian Institute of Science.
Khandre urged Kumaraswamy to support the initiative rather than politicize it. "This is about the future of our city. We should work together to protect our environment," he said.
