A large-scale demolition drive in Bengaluru's northern suburbs has left a trail of destruction and triggered significant public outcry. On Saturday, authorities razed more than 200 houses in Yelahanka's Kogilu village, specifically in Waseem Layout and Fakir Colony, leading to a major protest at the residence of Revenue Minister Krishna Byre Gowda the following day.
Demolition Drive and Immediate Fallout
The controversial operation was executed by the Bengaluru Solid Waste Management Limited (BSWML) to clear what it termed as encroachments on land designated for a solid waste processing unit. The demolition began early at 4:30 am on Saturday, with residents claiming they received no formal written notice. They reported that the power supply to the area was disconnected three days prior, with only oral instructions to vacate given to some.
In the aftermath, over 300 affected residents gathered near Minister Gowda's home in Sahakar Nagar on Sunday. Their primary demands were alternative housing and temporary shelters for the many left homeless, including vulnerable groups like newborns, pregnant women, and senior citizens. The minister, who represents the Byatarayanapura constituency encompassing the area, has assured a discussion with residents' representatives on Monday.
Residents' Plight and Allegations
The scene at Waseem Layout was one of despair as residents sifted through debris to salvage belongings, documents, and valuables. Personal stories highlighted the human cost. Rameeza, a domestic worker who lost her husband during the Covid pandemic, spoke of her struggles with two sons, one epileptic and the other blind in one eye. Another resident, Arifa Begum, revealed she had paid Rs 3 lakh to an agent for paperwork and invested a total of Rs 18 lakh in her house on a 30x40 sqft plot.
Activists from organisations like the Dalit Sangharsha Samithi, Praja Vimochana Chaluvali, and Dudiyuva Janara Vedike are representing the residents. They have accused the government of being anti-poor and targeting dalits and minorities. Activist Kolageri Ganesh alleged Karnataka was following a policy "against the poor" akin to that of the BJP and UP CM Yogi Adityanath, urging Housing Minister Zameer Ahmed Khan to intervene.
Pooja HM of Dudiyuva Janara Vedike pointed to a provisional order issued under the Karnataka Land Revenue Act, arguing it implied residents had rights over the land. She stressed that many uneducated residents were unaware of the formalities and had taken loans to build their homes.
Official Stance and Future Plans
BSWML, in its defence, stated that approximately 5 acres of land earmarked for it was illegally occupied, with over 150 temporary sheds and houses constructed on the site. BSWML CEO Karee Gowda confirmed the firm took possession of the land after clearing the encroachments. The drive was conducted with police protection and involved multiple agencies including the fire services, Bengaluru North City Corporation, revenue department, and the Bengaluru Metropolitan Task Force.
The corporation plans to utilise the cleared land for a comprehensive waste management facility, including a bio-methanation plant, animal rendering unit, waste incineration facility, and units for processing tender coconut and sanitary waste. This project is part of the city's broader strategy to manage its solid waste more effectively.
