Kogilu layout draws international attention! Pak enters, India dismisses “Baseless” claims

After Kerala CM’s remarks on the Kogilu Layout demolition, Pakistan issues a statement accusing India of targeting minorities, prompting a sharp rebuttal from New Delhi as Karnataka orders rehabilitation for verified victims.

The Kogilu Layout encroachment clearance in Bengaluru has now drawn international attention, with Pakistan stepping into the issue after remarks from Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan. Pakistan’s intervention has triggered a strong response from India, which has firmly rejected the allegations as misleading and politically motivated.

The controversy relates to the demolition drive carried out on December 20, 2025, at Kogilu Layout in north Bengaluru. During the operation, around 200 illegally constructed temporary sheds were removed. Government records state that the structures were unauthorised and built on encroached land.

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Following the demolition, the issue gained political traction after the Kerala Chief Minister commented on it. Soon after, Pakistan issued a press statement through its Foreign Office, accusing Indian authorities of targeting minorities. Pakistan claimed that Muslims were harassed, homes were demolished with state backing, and even alleged attacks on Christmas celebrations. It termed the situation as a serious concern for minorities in India.

India responded swiftly. External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal strongly dismissed Pakistan’s remarks, calling them unacceptable and hypocritical. He stated that India rejects comments coming from a country whose own record on minority rights is “abysmal.” Jaiswal added that Pakistan’s systematic and horrific victimisation of minorities of various faiths is a well-documented fact, and no amount of finger-pointing can hide that reality.

Indian officials have also clarified that Pakistan’s comments were made without understanding the ground situation or official reports, and that the attempt was aimed at defaming India on international platforms.

Meanwhile, the Karnataka government has moved to address humanitarian concerns. On Monday, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah ordered rehabilitation for all verified victims of the Kogilu Layout demolition. The government has decided to provide alternative housing to eligible families at Baiyappanahalli at a cost of Rs 11.20 lakh for each house, following verification of documents and eligibility.

Also Read:₹11.20 lakh homes for Kogilu Layout victims: Siddaramaiah assures immediate rehabilitation

Authorities have reiterated that the demolition targeted illegal encroachments, not any community, and that rehabilitation will be provided purely on humanitarian grounds to those who qualify.