Karnataka's Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar accused Kerala's Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan of unwarranted interference regarding the forced eviction from encroached lands in Bengaluru, saying his statements lacked factual grounding. Addressing the media from his Sadashivanagar residence, Shivakumar expressed his disappointment, stating, "It's unfortunate that a senior leader like Pinarayi Vijayan commented without fully understanding the case. The land cleared was a solid waste dump causing health issues in the area. Acting humanely, we provided them with relocation opportunities. External leaders shouldn't meddle in such matters."
He further added, "The land mafias aim to illegally possess government land, and we won't tolerate it. If any resident is eligible, they will be granted housing under the Rajiv Gandhi scheme. Government land will not be left unprotected."
Responding to Kerala's allegations of 'bulldozer governance,' the Deputy CM asserted, "There's no bulldozer culture here. I appeal to Pinarayi Vijayan not to make such claims. We are merely safeguarding government properties within urban areas and will also relay a message to our political leaders on this issue."
Source: aajtak
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Shivakumar also clarified that unlike some other cities, Bengaluru isn't overflowing with slums, and it's in Krishna Byre Gowda's constituency, who has been in active dialogue with officials. "This isn't a minority issue. If genuinely affected individuals are found, alternative housing will be provided. Under the leadership of Chief Minister and Housing Minister Zameer Ahmad, our government has built millions of homes for the needy."
On protests sparked by Pinarayi Vijayan's statements, he remarked, "These are all politically motivated comments and protests. They should refrain from commenting on our state matters without knowing the facts. This is merely a political strategy for the Kerala elections." When questioned if the evicted had any rights, he clarified, "Anyone with legitimate documents residing in Karnataka will receive necessary aid. Clear instructions have been given to the authorities in this regard."
