The Karnataka government has presented a robust defense of its demolition actions at Kogilu colony during a recent High Court hearing, asserting that settlers had re-encroached on landfill land. This legal stance comes amid ongoing scrutiny of the state's urban development policies and their impact on vulnerable communities.
Government's Submission Based on Digital Evidence
In a detailed submission to the Karnataka High Court, the Advocate General (AG) argued that the demolitions were justified due to illegal re-encroachment. The government's case hinges on compelling digital evidence, specifically Google Earth images that were appended to the statement of objections. According to these images, there were no constructions at the disputed site until 2013, indicating a recent and unauthorized settlement pattern.
Timeline of Constructions Revealed
The AG further emphasized that most of the constructions in Kogilu colony emerged after May 2025, as documented by the satellite imagery. This timeline suggests a rapid and possibly illegal expansion of settlements on land designated for landfill use, raising questions about land management and enforcement in the region.
Implications for Urban Planning and Legal Frameworks
This case highlights broader issues in Karnataka's urban governance, including the challenges of balancing development with environmental and legal compliance. The government's reliance on technological tools like Google Earth for evidence marks a shift towards data-driven decision-making in land disputes.
As the High Court deliberates, the outcome could set precedents for how similar encroachment cases are handled across the state, potentially influencing future policies on housing, land rights, and municipal oversight.
