Bengaluru, Dec 27 (NationPress) The All India Congress Committee (AICC) has voiced strong objections to the demolition efforts by the Congress-led Karnataka government targeting unauthorised constructions in Bengaluru. They emphasized that such actions necessitate more caution and a sensitive approach.

AICC General Secretary and Congress Lok Sabha member K.C. Venugopal expressed his concerns after discussions with Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar.

On social media platform X, Venugopal stated: “I had a conversation with Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar regarding the demolition activities in Kogilu village, Bengaluru. I stressed the AICC's significant concerns that these actions should have been taken with far more caution, sensitivity, and compassion, prioritizing the human impact.”

Venugopal further mentioned, “They have promised to personally engage with the families affected, establish a suitable mechanism for addressing grievances, and ensure rehabilitation and relief for those impacted.”

The situation intensified after Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan accused the Karnataka government of employing a ‘bulldozer model’ akin to that used in Uttar Pradesh to evict Muslims in certain areas of Bengaluru.

In response to Vijayan’s accusations, Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar urged the Kerala Chief Minister to refrain from interfering in Karnataka's internal matters, dismissing the allegations as politically driven.

“Without understanding the facts, Mr. Pinarayi should not meddle in our state’s affairs. These are election-related political maneuvers,” Shivakumar asserted.

Shivakumar, who also oversees Bengaluru Development, assured that those evicted who possess valid documentation and are residents of Karnataka will receive assistance. “Eligible individuals will certainly be rehabilitated,” he stated.

Clarifying the government’s actions, Shivakumar explained that huts had appeared overnight at the location. “After discussions with local representatives and officials, an order was issued to vacate the land, which has now been cleared. We executed the operation without causing distress to anyone,” he claimed.

He noted that the encroachment occurred on a quarry site designated nearly a decade ago for garbage disposal. “This area poses serious health risks, and illegal occupation cannot be tolerated,” he said.

Labeling Vijayan’s comments as regrettable, Shivakumar emphasized that senior leaders should first comprehend the ground realities in Bengaluru before making public statements.

“We are well aware of Bengaluru and wish to prevent the land mafia from creating slums. We are safeguarding government land,” he highlighted.

Additionally, Shivakumar mentioned that eligible families are receiving housing under the Rajiv Gandhi Housing Scheme.

Dismissing claims of bulldozer usage, he stated, “We did not employ bulldozers at all. We merely vacated a public place in the city’s core. This site is designated for garbage disposal, and no encroachment is permissible there.”

He further alleged that protests at the site were politically motivated.