Daijiworld Media Network - Bengaluru

Bengaluru, Mar 18: The Karnataka government on Tuesday, March 18 accused Union minister for heavy industries and steel H D Kumaraswamy of encroaching government land and announced that the encroached property had been seized.

However, Kumaraswamy denied the allegations, stating that he had never engaged in illegal activities and would fight the government's claims through legal means.

A survey was conducted at Ketaganahalli village near Bidadi town on Tuesday by officials led by Ramanagara deputy commissioner Yashwanth V Gurukar, under police protection, to identify and reclaim the encroached land.

Speaking to reporters, Gurukar said that the encroachment was carried out by Kumaraswamy and others. "As per the Karnataka High Court's directions, we are reclaiming government land covered under seven to eight survey numbers. Encroachment has taken place on more than 14 acres. The details will be submitted to the court, and the properties will be fenced and taken into government custody," he stated.

In response, Kumaraswamy said in Bengaluru that he had legally purchased the land four decades ago and accused the government of targeting him. "I have never engaged in illegal activities. This is land I bought 40 years ago, and I will challenge this conspiracy in court," he asserted.

He further questioned the government's actions, saying, "Even in the case of an ordinary citizen, the law mandates that a notice must be issued at least 15 days before eviction. I have not received any notice or official communication so far."

Alleging political vendetta, Kumaraswamy remarked, "This government is engaging in suppression while looting Bengaluru. For the first time in history, a Special Investigation Team has been formed for such a case. These actions will have consequences sooner or later."

Stating that he was being singled out by the Congress government, he said, "It looks like I am their primary target. This land has already been investigated multiple times over the past 40 years. If I am facing such harassment, one can imagine the plight of ordinary citizens."

Reiterating his stand, he added, "I have legally acquired this land, and I will fight the government's actions within the framework of the law. The media must verify facts and report the truth."