Kogilu house demolitions: KSHRC flags possible rights violations, seeks govt response
Bengaluru (PTI): A team from the KSHRC on Monday visited the site where several "illegal houses" were demolished in Kogilu in the northern part of the city and said that, prima facie, it appears proper alternative arrangements were not made for the residents, a matter that will be verified.
Karnataka State Human Rights Commission Chairperson T Sham Bhatt said the case has been referred to the commission’s investigation wing to examine allegations of human rights violations and to determine whether legal provisions were followed during the demolition. Based on the preliminary report, initial recommendations will be made to the government.
The demolition of houses at Kogilu’s Waseem Layout and Fakir Colony on December 20 was carried out by Bengaluru Solid Waste Management Limited to clear encroachments for a proposed solid waste processing unit, officials said.
They added that the houses were constructed without official permission and that most occupants were migrants from other states.
"Our officers will conduct inquiries, and affected people will need to submit relevant documents during the process. If it is government land, we will examine records and make recommendations to the government," Bhatt told reporters.
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"Meanwhile, residents allege that no alternate arrangements were made before the demolitions, although media reports indicate temporary shelter centres were opened at a distance. We will look into all of this," he added.
Further, Bhatt said, "Considering all factors, we will make preliminary recommendations to the government for now. After a proper inquiry, a detailed report will be submitted subsequently."
Responding to questions, the chairperson said that prima facie, based on residents’ accounts, there appears to be a human rights violation.
"However, we cannot conclude anything without verifying the documents. As it is said to be government land, we will serve notice to the government and seek a report on actions taken in accordance with the law. Based on this, we will decide and make recommendations," he said.
Bhatt stated that notices have been served to the deputy commissioner of the district and the Greater Bengaluru Authority, who are required to submit their responses within seven days.
"We have not examined any documents so far. We have only come here to assess the ground situation," he added.
Preliminary recommendations to the government will focus on providing temporary shelters and basic facilities, such as water, to families affected by the demolition.
The issue turned into a political row after Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and AICC General Secretary K C Venugopal criticised the demolition. Following this, Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar on Sunday said the government is considering rehabilitating genuine residents among those evicted.
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Chikkamagaluru: Temporary restrictions at tourist spots for New Year from tomorrow
Chikkamagaluru: Several high-footfall tourist destinations in the district, which are popular during New Year celebrations, will remain closed as a precautionary measure ahead of the festivities.
The district administration has imposed temporary restrictions on tourist spots in a bid to prevent any untoward incidents and ensure public safety.
Where are the restrictions imposed ?
Tourists will be prohibited from visiting Mullayanagiri, Seethalayangiri, Manikyadhara, Jhari Falls, Honnammana Halla Falls, Gaali Kere, Hirekolale, Kemmangundi, Ettina Bhuja, Devaramane, Diamond Falls, Rani Jhari Edge Point, Ballalarayana Durga, Bandaje Falls, Kudige Falls, Kyatanamakki, Rudrapada Suspension Bridge, Abbugudige Falls, Ayyanakere, Madagadakere, Kallatthigiri and Hebbe Falls from 6 pm on December 31 to 6 am on January 1.
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However, there will be no restrictions on tourists who have already registered online and booked homestays or resorts located within the restricted areas.
In addition, tight police security arrangements have been made at all tourist spots and along access routes.
