Bengaluru: Over 200 homes demolished in Yelahanka’s Kogilu Layout

Heavy police security and JCB machines marked a massive early-morning eviction operation by the Greater Bengaluru Authority in Kogilu Layout, leaving hundreds of families homeless and triggering emotional scenes on the streets.

Bengaluru witnessed one of its largest eviction and demolition operations on Saturday morning as the Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA) carried out a massive clearance drive in Kogilu Layout, Yelahanka, demolishing more than 200 houses along Bande Road. Families who had been living in the area for several years were left on the streets, many breaking down in tears as their homes were razed.

The operation began at dawn with the roar of six JCB machines, as residents hurriedly pulled out household items and personal belongings. Visuals from the site showed women and elderly residents crying after losing their homes, while officials pressed ahead with the demolition under tight security.

According to officials, the land belongs to the Greater Bengaluru Authority and was originally under the district administration before being transferred to GBA in 2016. The land was later allotted to Bengaluru Solid Waste Management Limited (BSWML). Authorities allege that despite the land being government property, some private individuals illegally sold plots for money, leading to unauthorized construction of small houses.

Also Read:Winter raises flu risk: Centre issues nationwide alert on seasonal influenza

Residents, however, narrated a different story. Many said they had voter IDs, electricity connections, and regular power bills, and no objections were raised when the houses were built. “We voted, we received electricity bills, and nobody stopped us while constructing. Suddenly, JCBs entered our homes,” several displaced residents said, expressing anger and helplessness.

Officials from the GBA stated that two notices were issued over the past month, warning residents to vacate the land. Since the houses were not cleared, the authority proceeded with the eviction. The administration maintained that the structures were illegal encroachments on civic land, including gomal (government grazing) land handed over to the civic body.

The demolition was carried out despite strong resistance and emotional appeals. Officials remained firm as police personnel were deployed in large numbers, along with staff from the Revenue Department, GBA, and district administration. Two ambulances were stationed at the site as a precautionary measure. A BMTC bus was also kept ready to detain anyone attempting to obstruct the operation.

Residents accused authorities of selective action, saying leaders visit their homes seeking votes during elections but remain absent when people face crises. “If we were given time, we would have vacated. Now everything has been destroyed forcefully,” they said.