Bengaluru: Selective demolition drive raises questions; spotlight on Sobha Infinia

As Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar intensifies the crackdown on encroachments blamed for Bengaluru’s chronic flooding, a growing chorus of citizens and activists is questioning the selective nature of the campaign. A post by the X handle Karnataka Portfolio has gone viral, highlighting concerns over high-profile developments allegedly built on lakebeds and buffer zones. 

Bengaluru Sinks, Builders Rise Will DK Shivakumar Bulldoze the Elite Too?

As Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar orders the demolition of encroachments that have contributed to severe flooding across Bengaluru, one can’t help but wonder will the same action be taken against… pic.twitter.com/7rZuu47fcD

— Karnataka Portfolio (@karnatakaportf) May 30, 2025

In particular, the post calls attention to Sobha Infinia, a major residential project, which activists allege stands on land that was once part of Agara Lake and its buffer zone. Residents from HSR Layout and surrounding areas, which suffer frequent flooding, have long pointed to the project as a contributing factor. 

Also Read: Bengaluru set for Operation Demolition: Over 800 encroachments on Rajakaluves marked

“If the government is truly committed to reclaiming public land and restoring stormwater drains, then accountability must be universal,” the post asserts. It warns that selective demolitions, targeting smaller violators while sparing politically connected developers, would undermine public trust.

The post challenges Shivakumar directly: “Why is Sobha Infinia still standing if it has indeed encroached upon a lake?” It adds, “Without firm action, this will be seen as political posturing, not real reform.”

As floodwaters rise and public patience wears thin, Bengaluru watches to see whether the government’s clean-up drive will include the city’s most powerful builders—or stop short of true accountability.