The Karnataka High Court is reviewing a Public Interest Litigation challenging the demolition of homes near Kogilu Layout in Bengaluru constructed on government land. The petitioners, including Jabia Tabassum, stated that about 3,000 individuals had lived in the area for nearly 28 years before being displaced by the Congress-led government in Wasim Layout and Fakir Layout.
Advocate General Shashi Kiran Shetty disputed the claims made in the PIL, refuting the assertion that people had resided in the area for 28 years. He mentioned that the government would present satellite images of each unlawfully built house in court. Additionally, he argued that the Supreme Court’s ruling on rehabilitation did not apply here, highlighting temporary arrangements and support provided to the affected residents.
The demolished area, located within a lake’s catchment zone, was deemed unsuitable for housing purposes, leading to the demolition due to alleged illegal occupation by residents. The court acknowledged the arguments and scheduled further hearings for January 22. Meanwhile, authorities are verifying documents submitted by the affected residents in collaboration with the Yalahanka Police.
