Kerala CM politicising Kogilu encroachment issue out of poll fear: D K Shivakumar

Action against those who collected money and allowed huts on government land says Dy.CM

Bengaluru

Deputy Chief Minister (Dy.CM) and Bengaluru Development Minister D K Shivakumar on Monday accused the Kerala Chief Minister of indulging in “unwarranted politics” over the demolition of illegal structures at Kogilu, claiming it was driven by fear of defeat in the upcoming Kerala Assembly elections.

Speaking to reporters after inspecting the cleared encroachment site near the solid waste management unit at Kogilu in Yelahanka, Shivakumar said the land in question was government-owned quarry land allotted nearly nine years ago for waste processing and was unfit for habitation.

“Some people have recently encroached upon this land and erected huts and sheds. Since it is government land meant for waste disposal, no voter IDs were issued here, though surrounding areas have voter lists,” he said.

The DCM stated that officials had issued prior notices and local legislators had held discussions before the eviction drive. “Some requested alternative land here itself, but this is not a habitable area. The decision was taken in the interest of public health,” he said.

Alleging political motives, Shivakumar said certain Communist leaders were attempting to gain minority sympathy. “This is a local issue of our state. If we were wrong, people would have protested. Instead, even members of the minority community welcomed us,” he claimed.

No unauthorised settlements 

Shivakumar said the government would verify the eligibility of displaced poor families and provide housing under government schemes where applicable. He alleged that middlemen had collected ₹1–2 lakh from people, promising plots on government land.

“Action will be taken against those who took money and facilitated illegal huts. We have agreements, testimonies from affected women, and even annual Google Maps images as evidence,” he said.

“There is no embarrassment for the Congress government. Protecting public land, cleanliness, and the rule of law in Bengaluru is our responsibility. Land grabbing will not be tolerated,” he added.