After Kogilu Layout, Sarai Palya faces demolition: Residents seek minister Zameer Ahmed’s intervention

Over 60 houses, godowns and garages razed in Thanisandra’s Sarai Palya amid allegations of sudden BDA action without notice

Even as the controversy surrounding Kogilu Layout remains unresolved, another residential pocket in north Bengaluru has been hit by a major demolition drive. Residents of Sarai Palya in Thanisandra are staring at homelessness after the Bangalore Development Authority (BDA) carried out a clearance operation, triggering strong allegations from locals.

On Thursday, BDA officials demolished around 60 structures, including houses, godowns and garages, citing encroachment on BDA land. The affected residents claim the action was taken without serving any prior notice, leaving families with no time to move their belongings.

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Several residents alleged that the demolished homes were built with valid documents, including property papers and e-Khata registrations. Locals questioned how such documents were issued if the land was officially classified as BDA property, accusing the government itself of misleading them.

The sudden demolition has left families shocked and distressed, with many residents now shelterless. Sarai Palya, which is predominantly inhabited by minority communities, witnessed emotional scenes as people searched for belongings amid the debris.

Drawing parallels with the Kogilu Layout case, residents expressed hope that a similar solution could be extended to them. Many have now approached Housing Minister Zameer Ahmed Khan, appealing for immediate intervention and protection of their homes. Minority residents were seen urging, “Save our houses, help us Zameer Bhai,” seeking relief and rehabilitation.

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The demolition has sparked further debate as it comes even before clarity is reached on the Kogilu Layout dispute, raising concerns over repeated clearance drives in minority-dominated settlements. Residents continue to demand answers on how legally issued documents existed for land now being termed illegal.

With anger, fear and uncertainty gripping Sarai Palya, locals are now waiting for a response from the government and hoping for relief similar to what was sought in the Kogilu Layout episode.