BDA’s ownership process incomplete even after 24 yrs: HC orders cancellation of proceedings

The Bangalore Development Authority (BDA) has ordered the cancellation of the land acquisition process for the development of the Banashankari 6th Stage neighborhood, after 24 years without completing the acquisition. The High Court, hearing petitions questioning some of the land acquisitions, has directed the BDA to revoke its land acquisition proceedings.

This order brings relief to landowners of approximately 350 plots located in Hemmigepura, Ganakallu, and other villages in Kengeri Taluk of South Bangalore. Justice E.S. Indiresh, a single-member bench, issued the order after examining petitions filed by H. Nagara Raju and others challenging the BDA’s land acquisition process.

Additionally, the court noted that, according to previous High Court orders, most of the land had already been released from the acquisition process, which was intended to cover around 2,138 acres. However, the BDA has not submitted comprehensive records indicating how much land has actually been acquired. Despite 24 years passing, the land has not been taken over by the authority. Therefore, the court rejected the government and BDA’s claim that the neighborhood development project is substantially underway.

Furthermore, the court noted that in some cases, the BDA had already cancelled land acquisition notices for certain plots, as per previous orders. However, the process to acquire some farmers’ lands is still ongoing, which the court deemed against Article 14 of the Constitution, indicating discrimination and arbitrary action.

During the hearing, lawyers representing the petitioners argued, “Even after initiating the land acquisition process 24 years ago, land have not been acquired. Most of the land has been released, and continuing the process for some plots is illegal and discriminatory.”

Yogeshwar, does a U turn over renaming of Ramanagara

 It is no secret that our politicians often change their stance based on convenience; they turn with the wind. This is noteworthy because MLA C. P. Yogeshwar, who won the Channapatna Assembly by-election with over 25,000 votes, had staunchly opposed the renaming of Ramanagara district when he was with the BJP. However, now, after Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar announced the district's name change to Bengaluru South, Yogeshwar has not opposed it. He has been defending the same by offering various explanations.

It can be recalled that a week ago, Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar declared in the Cabinet meeting that Ramanagara would be renamed Bengaluru South District. An official order is also expected soon. He clarified that the district headquarters would remain in Ramanagara, and there would be no change in the location of the headquarters, courts, or offices. All work and operations would continue as usual in Ramanagara.

Further, Shivakumar had emphasized that everyone was eagerly awaiting this joyful announcement, which marks a significant development for the region. Janata Dal (Secular) State President and Minister of Heavy Industries and Steel H. D. Kumaraswamy was one among the many prominent people who had opposed the renaming of Ramanagara district.