In the early hours of December 20, 2025, a demolition drive in Bengaluru's Kogilu village near Yelahanka left a trail of rubble and displaced lives, sparking resistance and a political storm. The Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA), supported by a significant police presence, razed over 400 structures in Fakir Colony and Waseem Layout, claiming the houses were illegally constructed on government land near a pond adjacent to the Urdhu Government School. The pre-dawn operation, which began around 4 a.m., caught residents off guard, rendering over 350 families homeless and igniting outrage among residents, activists, and local groups.
According to GBA officials, the demolitions were part of an ongoing anti-encroachment drive to reclaim public land and prevent further illegal constructions. A senior GBA officer stated that the land belonged to the government and was part of a waterbody buffer zone, and that action was "inevitable" despite repeated warnings. However, residents vehemently disputed these claims, asserting that they had been living in the area for over two decades and had not received any prior notice. They argued that the sudden action violated basic principles of natural justice.
The demolition drive, executed with four heavy earthmovers, proceeded rapidly after authorities removed LPG cylinders and other flammable materials from the houses as a safety precaution. Residents accused the police of using excessive force during protests against the demolition. Activists alleged that officials failed to provide alternative accommodation or immediate rehabilitation measures. Pooja H.M., a member of Dudiyuva Janara Vedike, highlighted that affected families possessed valid Aadhaar cards, voter IDs, and other official documents, with many even having taken loans from banks.
The aftermath of the demolition has seen displaced residents attempting to salvage their belongings from the debris. Sarah Saif Saufik, a 26-year-old resident, recounted how her family, who had been living there for over 30 years, were forced out of their homes without even being allowed to take essential items like bedsheets and blankets.
The incident has quickly escalated into a political controversy. Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan condemned the demolitions, criticizing the "bulldozer raj". Congress General Secretary K.C. Venugopal expressed concern over the humanitarian impact. These comments drew criticism from the opposition BJP, who accused them of interfering in Karnataka's governance. D.K. Shivakumar clarified that Venugopal's comments were advisory and that the Karnataka government is considering rehabilitation measures for affected residents. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah is expected to hold a meeting to review the situation and explore potential solutions. Protests have also been held near the residence of revenue minister Krishna Byre Gowda, with demonstrators demanding alternative housing and temporary shelters for those displaced.
The demolition in Kogilu has brought into sharp focus the conflict between urban development, environmental protection, and the rights of the urban poor. While authorities maintain the drive was necessary to reclaim public land for a solid waste processing unit, the lack of prior notice and rehabilitation efforts has drawn strong criticism. As affected families struggle without shelter, questions are being raised about accountability, due process, and the humane implementation of anti-encroachment measures in Bengaluru.
