Karnataka Deputy CM Rebukes Kerala CM Over Bengaluru Eviction Row

Bengaluru: The political row over a recent eviction and demolition drive in Bengaluru intensified this weekend after Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan criticised the action as “bulldozer raj” and alleged it targeted minorities.

Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar responded sharply, urging Vijayan not to comment on the internal affairs of another state and contesting the criticisms as politically motivated. 

Background: Eviction in Bengaluru

Earlier this week, authorities in Bengaluru carried out an eviction drive at Faqir Colony and Wasim Layout near Kogilu village, resulting in the removal of structures and displacement of several families from land that the Karnataka government says was designated for solid waste management and public use. The operation has drawn widespread attention and controversy. 

According to government officials, the land was encroached upon illegally and poses safety and health hazards. Notices had reportedly been served to residents to vacate the area, but compliance was limited, prompting the action. The state has also promised aid and alternative housing arrangements for those with valid documents and genuine residency claims. 

Pinarayi Vijayan’s Criticism

Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan took to social media to criticise the evictions, describing the demolition of homes—claimed by some residents to be longstanding settlements—as an example of “bulldozer raj” and alleging that minorities were disproportionately affected by the action. His remarks drew strong reactions from political leaders across Karnataka.

Shivakumar’s Response

Addressing the media, D.K. Shivakumar dismissed Vijayan’s comments, saying senior leaders should not speak without knowing the facts on the ground and insisting the eviction was not guided by communal considerations but by legal requirements to protect public land. He said Karnataka has no “bulldozer culture” and that the accusations were “political gimmicks” ahead of elections. 

Shivakumar emphasised that eligible displaced residents would be considered for housing under relevant schemes and sought to frame the episode as one of law enforcement rather than discrimination. 

Broader Political Reaction

Karnataka Congress leaders have also rebuffed Vijayan’s remarks, asserting that he should focus on his own state’s issues and refrain from interfering in Karnataka’s administrative matters. At the same time, senior Congress figures have urged that eviction drives and similar enforcement actions be conducted with greater sensitivity and compassion, particularly considering the humanitarian impact on affected families