K'taka CM, Deputy Unite Amid Bengaluru Demolition Row, Congress Faces Unease Over 'Bulldozer Raj' Criticism

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A recent demolition drive in Bengaluru's Kogila Layout has sparked a heated controversy, with Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar presenting a united front against criticism from Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan. The Congress party is grappling with internal dissent and external criticism over the eviction of several families, which has been described as an example of 'bulldozer raj'. According to officials, the demolition was necessitated by safety concerns, as the area is a waste-disposal site. Despite repeated warnings, the residents failed to relocate, leading to the clearance of the encroachment. However, the move has drawn sharp criticism from Vijayan, who accused the Karnataka government of following a 'North Indian bulldozer justice model'. Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar have countered the criticism, stating that the action was unavoidable and based on safety concerns. They have assured immediate relief for those displaced, including temporary shelter, food, and other essentials. The Karnataka government has also emphasized that the action was not motivated by any bias against minorities, as claimed by Vijayan. The controversy has exposed tensions within the Congress party, with senior leader KC Venugopal urging the government to act with greater compassion. The episode has also sharpened the party's confrontation with leaders outside the state, who have criticized the handling of the situation. Meanwhile, protests have been held by local residents and left-wing parties, demanding immediate rehabilitation and fulfillment of basic needs for those displaced. The situation remains sensitive, with the Congress party facing a delicate balancing act between addressing humanitarian concerns and defending its actions in the face of criticism.