Is the Karnataka BJP Correct in Claiming Displaced Residents are Rohingyas?
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Synopsis
In a heated debate over Bengaluru's unauthorised construction issue, the Karnataka BJP claims displaced residents are Rohingyas, calling for intervention from the NIA. They oppose housing allocations under the Rajiv Gandhi Housing Scheme, raising questions about identity verification and local impact. This controversy unfolds amid political tensions and accusations of vote-bank politics.
Key Takeaways
- Karnataka BJP claims displaced residents are Rohingyas.
- Opposition to housing allocations under the Rajiv Gandhi Housing Scheme.
- Call for investigation by the NIA.
- Concerns raised by AICC on demolition sensitivity.
- Political tensions escalate between Karnataka and Kerala leaders.
Bengaluru, Dec 29 (NationPress) The controversy surrounding unauthorised constructions in Bengaluru escalated on Monday when the Karnataka Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) alleged that the displaced individuals are Rohingyas, opposing the state government's initiative to allocate houses to them through the Rajiv Gandhi Housing Scheme.
During a press conference at the BJP's state headquarters, Jagannath Bhavan, Leader of the Opposition in the Legislative Council, Chalavadi Narayanaswamy, asserted that the party has credible information suggesting that those affected by the recent demolition drive are indeed Rohingyas. He called for the matter to be investigated by the National Investigation Agency (NIA).
Narayanaswamy emphasized that the BJP possesses information confirming that all individuals whose homes were demolished are Rohingyas, asserting that they should not receive housing under the Rajiv Gandhi Housing Scheme.
He issued a warning that if the government illegally provides housing to those displaced in the Kogilu locality of Bengaluru, it would be compelled to extend the same to all similarly affected residents throughout the state.
“Who are these individuals? Verify their identities,” he challenged, questioning the rationale behind providing homes to what he described as Bangladeshi nationals and voicing concerns for local residents who have also lost their homes.
Mocking the government’s response, Narayanaswamy remarked that following a tweet from AICC General Secretary K.C. Venugopal, “even your (ruling Congress leaders’) clothes have become wet.”
He further alleged that around 200 huts near Hebbal Bridge were being exploited for ganja and drug trafficking, criticizing the government for inaction despite prior notifications. He accused the Congress of generating slums for political gain.
Moreover, he questioned the authority of K.C. Venugopal and Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan to meddle in this local issue.
Addressing the demolitions in Kogilu Layout, Narayanaswamy pointed out that the government had used bulldozers to eliminate encroachments. He remarked on the silence of Karnataka Minister Krishna Byre Gowda and Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, who had sanctioned the demolitions, after the Kerala Chief Minister's comments on “bulldozer culture.”
“What business does the Kerala Chief Minister have here? The people of Kerala are well aware of the political dynamics at play,” he stated, labeling the Karnataka government as extremely weak.
Narayanaswamy cautioned that if the government were to yield to pressures from K.C. Venugopal or Pinarayi Vijayan, it should not impose an agenda on the people of Karnataka. He questioned Venugopal’s authority and interference in Karnataka’s governance.
Referring to comments made by Zameer Ahmad, Minister for Housing and Waqf, who had suggested residents would receive good news soon, Narayanaswamy proposed that this indicates a planned conspiracy by the government.
Describing the administration as a “scrap government,” he questioned why an individual named Wasim, who allegedly accepted money from residents, had not faced arrest, branding the state administration a “government of servitude.”
In a related development, the All India Congress Committee (AICC) raised concerns about the Karnataka government's demolition drive, suggesting that such actions should be taken with more caution and empathy.
In a statement on social media, K.C. Venugopal conveyed the AICC’s serious concerns to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah regarding the demolitions in Kogilu village, emphasizing the need for greater caution, sensitivity, and compassion regarding the human impact.
The situation intensified further after Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan accused the Karnataka government of employing a “bulldozer model” to evict Muslims from certain areas in Bengaluru.
In response, Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar urged Vijayan not to meddle in Karnataka's internal matters, dismissing the allegations as politically motivated.
“Without understanding the facts, Mr. Pinarayi should refrain from interfering in our state’s affairs. These are mere political stunts ahead of the elections,” Shivakumar asserted.
Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar is scheduled to visit the Kogilu locality later today.
Point of View
It's essential to approach this situation with a balanced perspective. While political disputes often highlight significant societal issues, it’s crucial to navigate these claims responsibly, considering both community impacts and the individuals involved. The situation demands careful examination, focusing on facts rather than divisive narratives.
NationPress
31/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What triggered the controversy in Bengaluru?
The controversy began with the Karnataka BJP claiming that displaced residents from unauthorised constructions are Rohingyas, opposing the state's housing allocation.
Who is Chalavadi Narayanaswamy?
Chalavadi Narayanaswamy is the Leader of the Opposition in the Karnataka Legislative Council and has been vocal about the BJP's stance on the Rohingya issue.
What is the Rajiv Gandhi Housing Scheme?
The Rajiv Gandhi Housing Scheme is a state initiative aimed at providing housing for economically weaker sections of society.
What concerns did K.C. Venugopal raise?
K.C. Venugopal raised concerns about the demolition drive, emphasizing the need for sensitivity and compassion towards the affected individuals.
What did Pinarayi Vijayan accuse the Karnataka government of?
Pinarayi Vijayan accused the Karnataka government of using a 'bulldozer model' to evict Muslims, likening it to actions in Uttar Pradesh.
