Those who lost homes in Kogilu to hold a rally today; BJP to protest on Monday

Even as Opposition Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has announced a protest on January 5 against alleged preferential treatment to residents of Kogilu Layout, those who lost their homes in a demolition drive will hold a public rally on Sunday.

Leader of Opposition in the Karnataka Legislative Assembly R. Ashok visited Rajiv Gandhi Housing Corporation Limited (RGHCL) office on Saturday. Speaking to reporters, he said around 65,000 people have applied for housing schemes under the Rajiv Gandhi Housing Corporation, and they should be given preference over those who had encroached government land in the Kogilu Layout.

“About 7,000 houses have been built under various schemes in the corporation. Another 10,000 houses are under construction. An 80-year-old woman has paid the full amount, but she has not yet been given a house. For the past four months, she has been made to run around, and that house still lacks drinking water and electricity connection. She is living in a rented house and is anxious about having to leave it. Similarly, thousands of Kannadigas have applied and are waiting for houses,” he said.

Alleging there were illegal Bangladeshis among those who lost homes in Kogilu, Mr. Ashok demanded genealogy should be made mandatory when giving houses.

Complaint against Ashok

Meanwhile, a complaint has been filed with the Karnataka State Minorities Commission seeking action against Mr. Ashok over remarks made during his visit to the demolished site at Fakeer Layout, alleging that his statements amounted to hate speech and incitement against minority communities.

A BJP fact finding committee led by MLA for Yelahanka S.R. Vishwanath visited the demolition site on Saturday, causing some tension.

Mr. Vishwanath said the committee would submit its report in the next few days to BJP State president B.Y. Vijayendra. “We will submit the report to the Governor and eventually take the issue to the court,” he said.