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The Bangalore Development Authority (BDA) has established a two-member committee of retired district judges to investigate a controversial demolition drive carried out in the Thanisandra area of north Bengaluru on 8 January, which has sparked allegations of improper procedure and possible land grab. The authority said the panel will review whether legal processes were followed in the removal of structures on land it claims as BDA property in Arkavathi Layout, a move that followed earlier encroachment clearance operations in the city. Residents and affected families have contested the demolitions, asserting that dozens of homes were razed without adequate notice and that many occupants had documents such as e-khata certificates and tax receipts. The inquiry is expected to begin after late February and assess documents including proof of occupation and notices served before the demolition.
The Bangalore Development Authority (BDA) has initiated an investigation into the demolition operations it conducted in the Thanisandra area of north Bengaluru earlier this month, following public outcry and allegations of improper procedure and land grab motives. The authority issued a public notice stating that it has appointed a two-member committee composed of retired district judges to examine whether due process was observed during the clearance drive on 8 January. Advertisement
The demolition drive targeted structures reportedly built on land that the BDA contends is its notified property within Arkavathi Layout, near Saraipalya, on survey numbers 28/1 and 28/2. The authority's initial claims described the removal of around 22 unauthorised constructions, including godowns, a garage and a furniture shed. However, local residents have asserted that the operation affected more than 60 structures, including houses where families lived.
Residents and affected occupants have criticised the demolition, saying that advance notice was not provided and pointing out that many had legal documents such as e-khata certificates and receipts for property taxes and utility charges. Social media videos and local reports show residents questioning the sudden eviction and expressing distress over the loss of their homes, some alleging that the action was aimed at facilitating development of adjacent properties.
In response to the controversy, BDA Chairman N. A.Haris said that land grabbers had allegedly misused poorer families by renting them encroached sites, and that the committee will scrutinise all submissions to determine whether proper legal notices were issued and procedures were followed. He stated that documentation such as proof of occupation and records of how and when the properties were acquired will be examined. Authorities also noted that displaced families were temporarily provided support including shelter and basic amenities.
The inquiry is scheduled to begin after late February, with the committee tasked to give its findings on the legality of the BDA's actions. A formal review of records and testimonies will form the basis of the committee's opinion, which may inform further enforcement or remedial measures in the contentious case.
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