Former Deputy Chief Minister and BJP MLA C.N. Ashwath Narayan claimed that all encroachers involved in the Bengaluru land controversy are Bangladeshis. He emphasized the need for a National Investigation Agency (NIA) probe to address the issue. Narayan stressed that the focus should be on the alleged presence of illegal immigrants rather than just providing housing to the poor.
Ashwath Narayan further stated that house allotment should strictly adhere to eligibility criteria, with priority given to deserving applicants. He expressed concerns over the reported presence of more than 25 lakh Bangladeshis in the state, highlighting it as a national security issue. The MLA criticized the Karnataka government for allegedly diverting attention from the core issue by focusing solely on housing allocation.
Urban Development Minister Byrathi Suresh clarified that only around 90 locals affected by the Kogilu demolition would be eligible for rehabilitation. Meanwhile, BJP MLA S.R. Vishwanath accused Congress leaders of facilitating illegal constructions on government land and collecting rent from residents. Vishwanath criticized the government’s response to the situation, alleging a rush to promise rehabilitation after the AICC’s intervention.
Vishwanath raised concerns over the housing scheme for encroachers, pointing out discrepancies in the pricing for genuine beneficiaries versus encroachers. He warned of legal challenges if the government proceeds with the housing allocation, emphasizing the need to prevent further encroachments on government land.
