Karnataka CM Dismisses 'Land Mafia' Allegations in Bidadi Township Project Controversy

Karnataka Chief Minister DK Shivakumar has rejected claims of a 'land mafia' scandal in the Bidadi township project, labeling the accusations as politically driven. He defended the project as part of urban development, not private gain, and emphasized ongoing collaboration with local farmers and leaders in neighboring states.

Karnataka Chief Minister DK Shivakumar on Monday firmly denied allegations of 'land mafia' involvement in the Bidadi township project, characterizing the criticism as politically motivated and baseless. At a media briefing, he highlighted that the project aligns with urban development goals, akin to infrastructure ventures in neighboring states.

Shivakumar cited similar land development initiatives in Maharashtra and Telangana to contextualize Karnataka's efforts, stating, "I don't want to give an answer to anyone. Now, Maharashtra is acquiring 80,000 acres to develop a new township. Telangana is developing a new township on 40,000 acres." He clarified that the project is a legacy initiative, originally notified by former CM Kumaraswamy, and continued during the BJP's term.

Addressing concerns about the local farming community, Shivakumar defended the government’s commitment to industrial progress, questioning the narrative of displaced farmers due to past projects. "Who developed the Bidadi Township? Who developed the Bidadi Industrial Township? Who developed the Harohalli Industrial Township? Did the farmers disappear because of those projects?" he asked, asserting that local landowners have largely agreed to the project.

Earlier in May, Shivakumar had agreed to a public debate challenge from Union Minister HD Kumaraswamy regarding the project's legitimacy. The Janata Dal (Secular) party had contested the development, suggesting a politically protected 'land mafia' was involved. Shivakumar responded by pointing out that initial notifications came during Kumaraswamy's own tenure and highlighted the courts’ refusal to intervene.

He further assured that the government is keen on compensating affected landowners and has secured consent from roughly eighty percent of them, with payments set to begin in June. Despite escalating political tension, including letters from former PM HD Deve Gowda to top Congress leaders, Shivakumar criticized the persistent politicking, alluding to economic challenges such as rising steel prices.