The Karnataka government, led by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, has strongly defended its recent action of removing encroachments in Bengaluru's Fakir Colony and Wasim Layout areas. The state maintains that the cleared land was officially designated for waste management activities and was unsuitable for residential purposes.
Government Cites Waste Management Zone Notification
In a detailed explanation, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah stated that the area in the Byatarayanapura assembly segment is part of a government-notified waste management zone. He revealed that notices had been previously issued to individuals who had settled illegally on the government land, directing them to vacate the premises.
"As they did not comply with the government's directions, the encroachment was cleared. Most of the residents were migrants," the CM said. However, on humanitarian grounds, he instructed officials to make alternative arrangements for shelter for those left homeless.
Political Row Erupts Over 'Bulldozer Model' Allegation
The issue escalated into a political controversy following criticism from Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan. Vijayan reportedly accused the Karnataka government of employing a 'bulldozer model' similar to Uttar Pradesh to evict Muslims in Bengaluru. He elaborated on this allegation in a Facebook post, suggesting the demolition reflected politics targeting minorities.
This charge was met with a firm rebuttal from Karnataka's Deputy Chief Minister and Bengaluru Development Minister, D.K. Shivakumar. He urged Vijayan not to interfere in Karnataka's internal affairs without knowing the facts.
"Without knowing the facts, Mr. Vijayan should not interfere in our state's affairs. These are political gimmicks ahead of elections," Shivakumar asserted. He clarified that those evicted with valid documents and those belonging to Karnataka would certainly receive assistance, adding that he would send a detailed report to the Kerala CM.
Background of the Encroached Land
Explaining the sequence of events, Shivakumar detailed that huts had appeared overnight at the location. After discussions with local representatives and officers, an order was issued to vacate the land. "The slum had come up at a quarry site, which was notified ten years ago for garbage dumping," he emphasized, rejecting any allegations of targeting a specific community.
He further noted that the land falls under the constituency of Revenue Minister Krishna Byre Gowda, who was aware of the situation and had directed officers to prevent land grab attempts.
"It is not a question of minorities or other people. We don't want to hurt anyone, but if anyone wants land and is eligible, we will definitely give houses," Shivakumar stated, reiterating the government's rehabilitation promise.
The sentiment was echoed by Minister Ramalinga Reddy in Udupi, who suggested that the Kerala CM should focus on his own state first, asserting that Karnataka is capable of managing its affairs.
