Fed up with years of neglect and broken promises, residents of Munnekolala in East Bengaluru took to the streets in a powerful demonstration of civic frustration. The community staged a protest that sent a clear message to authorities: no proper roads, no tax payments.
The Breaking Point
For over eight years, residents of this bustling neighborhood have endured what they describe as "absolute negligence" from civic authorities. The protest, organized by the Munnekolala Residents' Welfare Association, saw hundreds of community members gathering to voice their grievances about the deplorable state of their roads and overall infrastructure.
Core Demands of the Protest
The protesters presented several key demands that have been repeatedly ignored:
- Immediate asphaltation and proper development of all internal roads
- Installation of functional street lights throughout the area
- Proper drainage systems to prevent waterlogging during monsoons
- Regular garbage collection and waste management services
The Tax Boycott Threat
In a bold move that caught officials' attention, residents announced they would withhold property tax payments until their basic infrastructure demands are met. This collective action represents a significant financial implication for the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP), the city's civic body.
Official Response and Next Steps
BBMP officials have acknowledged the protest and promised action. A senior official stated that road development tenders would be issued within 15 days, with work commencing shortly thereafter. However, residents remain skeptical, having heard similar assurances in the past that never materialized into tangible improvements.
The Munnekolala protest highlights a growing trend across Bengaluru's peripheral areas, where rapid urbanization has outpaced infrastructure development, leaving residents to fight for basic civic amenities that are rightfully theirs.
