Shashi Tharoor supports Karnataka demolition drive, cites legal process and safety concerns
Congress MP Shashi Tharoor defended Karnataka government’s demolition drive in Bengaluru on Friday. The move has sparked controversy both within the party and among the public. Tharoor emphasized that authorities followed legal procedures. He also noted that affected residents were promised alternative arrangements.
Tharoor explained that the land targeted in the demolition belonged to the government. “First, the land belonged to the government, and people were living there illegally. Second, it was a garbage dump, and toxic waste had contaminated the water, so it was not a fit place for people to live,” he said, according to PTI.
The MP highlighted that residents were informed in advance. He argued that politically projecting the issue based solely on the poverty of affected people was unfair. “The government has taken a decision to provide temporary accommodation and has promised permanent housing within five to six months,” he added.
He also addressed criticisms regarding the relocation process. “There may be flaws in the shifting process, and people can have differences of opinion on how it was done. But a solution has been promised,” Tharoor said. He stressed that all actions must follow the law. “The Karnataka government has done this, adhering to court directions. Notices were given, and in some cases they were issued multiple times before the demolition.”
Tharoor clarified that he had not visited Karnataka recently. “Since I have not seen the situation on the ground, I cannot give a definitive opinion,” he said.
The controversy began after authorities evicted several families from Kogila Layout near Yelahanka on December 20. The action drew pushback from within the Congress party. It also attracted criticism from outside. Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan labelled the drive as an example of “bulldozer raj.”
Meanwhile, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah defended the move. He said the demolitions were unavoidable and based on safety concerns. “Several people had illegally erected makeshift shelters at the waste-disposal site in Kogila Layout near Yelahanka. It is not a place suitable for human habitation,” he wrote on X.
Observers noted that the drive highlights the tension between urban development, legal enforcement, and humanitarian concerns. Government officials argue that public safety and environmental standards necessitate strict action. Critics, however, question whether the process adequately considered the rights and dignity of affected residents.
Tharoor’s stance appears to align with the official line while acknowledging minor flaws. He encouraged political actors to avoid unnecessary provocation. He argued that providing solutions for affected residents should take priority over partisan criticism.
Legal experts confirm that the state followed court orders before acting. They noted that notices were sent repeatedly and that temporary relocation measures were arranged. Urban planning authorities also noted that the site posed environmental hazards, including contaminated water and toxic waste.
As debates continue, Karnataka authorities maintain that their actions are rooted in safety and legality. Meanwhile, the Congress party faces internal debate over public perception and political messaging. Residents displaced by the demolition await promised accommodations, while social activists call for monitoring to ensure commitments are met.
In conclusion, Tharoor urged focus on solutions rather than political theatre. He stressed that safety, legality, and housing provisions must guide the response. The debate is likely to continue in media, politics, and public forums, as Karnataka navigates the challenges of urban development and enforcement.
