The Deputy Chief Minister of Karnataka, D.K. Shivakumar, addressed the controversy surrounding the state government’s rehabilitation announcement for encroachers in Bengaluru. He emphasized that the government would not support illegal encroachments or offer gifts to encroachers. Shivakumar clarified that there would be no appeasement politics involved in dealing with encroachment issues.
Shivakumar responded to allegations of appeasing Muslims by stating that legal action would be taken against those responsible for encroachments. He mentioned that eligible residents would receive housing under the Prime Minister Awas Yojana. The Deputy Chief Minister also highlighted the need to verify ownership documents issued in certain areas.
In response to objections from Kerala MPs regarding Karnataka’s affairs, Shivakumar asserted that the government would address illegal encroachments effectively. He dismissed interference from outside parties, emphasizing the state’s ability to manage its own issues. Additionally, Shivakumar mentioned that senior political leaders would address comments made by Pakistan’s Foreign Minister on a specific issue.
Regarding reports of individuals possessing Aadhaar cards and voter IDs from different states, Shivakumar stated that officials would investigate the matter. He clarified that only eligible persons with genuine local addresses and names on the voters’ list would be considered for housing. The Karnataka BJP expressed disapproval of the government’s decision to rehabilitate encroachers, linking it to the intervention of the AICC.
