Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D. K. Shivakumar has urged Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan to refrain from meddling in Karnataka’s affairs following Vijayan’s comment likening Karnataka’s actions to a ‘bulldozer model’ used in Uttar Pradesh. Shivakumar emphasized that those lawfully residing in Bengaluru with valid documents will receive assistance, dismissing Vijayan’s statements as pre-election tactics. He clarified that the recent clearance of an area in Bengaluru, previously designated for waste disposal, was carried out after due process and aims to prevent illegal occupation.
Shivakumar criticized Vijayan for his lack of understanding of the situation in Bengaluru, particularly regarding the encroachment on a hazardous waste site. He highlighted the government’s commitment to preventing the formation of unauthorized settlements and protecting public land from exploitation. Shivakumar refuted claims of using bulldozers, stating that the recent action was limited to reclaiming a designated garbage dumping site in the city center.
The Deputy CM reiterated that the government’s actions were not driven by political motives but aimed at upholding the law and ensuring public safety. He emphasized the provision of housing under the Rajiv Gandhi Housing Scheme for eligible individuals affected by the recent clearance. Shivakumar denounced the protests at the site as politically instigated and reaffirmed the government’s stance against land encroachment and illegal settlements.
