Bengaluru: Political tensions have escalated in Karnataka following the controversial eviction drive at Kogilu Layout, with criticism mounting over perceived interference from Kerala leaders. Residents and political observers have raised concerns about the role of Kerala politicians in Karnataka’s internal matters, particularly in relation to alternative housing arrangements for those displaced by the eviction.
The eviction operation, aimed at removing illegal structures, was carried out by the Karnataka government. While the operation was legally sanctioned, it has triggered a political storm as Kerala leaders, including Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, have reportedly exerted pressure on Karnataka authorities. Reports indicate that the All India Congress Committee General Secretary, KC Venugopal, instructed Karnataka officials to provide alternative housing for the displaced residents, despite the state government’s classification of the structures as illegal.
This intervention has prompted widespread debate. “Should Karnataka bear the consequences of Kerala’s political moves? Even if structures are illegal, are we obliged to say ‘Ji Huzoor’?” questioned local citizens. The episode has fueled perceptions that Kerala’s political leadership is using Karnataka for its electoral gains, particularly in the run-up to Kerala’s upcoming elections.
Kerala MPs and leaders, including A.A. Rahim and former minister Jalil, recently visited Bengaluru to meet residents and observe the situation firsthand. Their presence has further inflamed public sentiment, with questions being raised over the appropriateness of interstate political involvement. Critics argue that such interventions undermine Karnataka’s sovereignty in managing its civic affairs.
The Kogilu Layout issue has also drawn scrutiny over the Karnataka Congress government’s handling of the matter. Citizens and opposition figures have questioned why the state’s leadership has complied with external pressure, with many arguing that local law and order priorities are being subordinated to interstate political interests. “Why does the Kerala leadership get a free hand in Karnataka? Why is the state government silently following directives from Delhi without asserting its authority?” asked concerned residents.
The political controversy underscores broader anxieties about governance and accountability. Citizens have highlighted that similar support was extended to Kerala during natural disasters, including Wayanad floods and elephant attacks, raising questions about consistency in policy application. Now, with Venugopal’s intervention in Bengaluru, critics assert that Karnataka is being compelled to provide aid and protection to illegal occupants at the behest of external political actors.
As tensions simmer, Karnataka residents continue to debate the limits of political influence, legal enforcement, and the responsibility of their own state government. The Kogilu Layout controversy remains a flashpoint, reflecting not only local governance challenges but also the complex dynamics of interstate political engagement.
Key public questions emerging from the debate include:
- Why is Kerala holding a “darbar” in Karnataka without opposition?
- Why is Karnataka following orders from Kerala leaders while the structures are deemed illegal?
- Should external politicians influence housing and civic matters in another state?
- Why is the state leadership remaining silent on this interference?
With public sentiment intensifying, the Kogilu Layout issue continues to highlight the friction between legal authority, political pressure, and citizen expectations in Bengaluru.
