Union Minister for Heavy Industries and Steel H.D. Kumaraswamy claimed that around 175 acres of HMT land in Bengaluru were redirected between 1999 and 2004, allegedly involving the then Urban Development Minister, now Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar. Kumaraswamy, inspecting various HMT land parcels, has instructed officials to compile a detailed report on the suspected irregularities for further action and investigation.
Alleging a nexus between former HMT officials and influential figures, Kumaraswamy raised concerns about residential complexes like Aquila Heights, Govianu Eritis, Prestige Kensington Gardens, and KKR AMR Rubee Apartments built on HMT land. Without directly naming Shivakumar, he accused the same individual of facilitating the transfer of valuable HMT land to private entities during his tenure as Urban Development Minister.
Presenting maps and documents, Kumaraswamy asserted that he possesses information on the beneficiaries of these transactions and emphasized the need for transparency. He also called out former Forest Minister Eshwar Khandre to take action against high-rise buildings occupying disputed land, clarifying his support for allocating HMT land to national institutions like ISRO.
Reflecting on his past term as Chief Minister in 2006, Kumaraswamy mentioned his decision to halt further alienation of HMT land, ensuring the preservation of a significant portion. He highlighted the challenges faced by apartment owners on contested properties in obtaining legal documentation, questioning the State government’s delay in regularization.
Challenging vested interests hindering the Union Government’s efforts to revive HMT with a proposed package, Kumaraswamy stressed the importance of supporting the public sector undertaking. Despite the ongoing Supreme Court dispute over HMT land, he urged stakeholders to prioritize the revival of the industrial land over private interests.
