‘Open to suggestions’: Karnataka CM Shivakumar after protests over park land rule

Karnataka Chief Minister D K Shivakumar has pledged to reassess a controversial amendment allowing the use of up to 5 per cent of the city's protected park land for public utilities. Unveiling his stance at a press conference near his residence, Shivakumar stated that he would review the proposal's origins, the previous government's actions, and the specific land allocations.

The amendment to the Karnataka Government Parks (Preservation) Act, passed without prior discussion, sparked widespread protests from Bengaluru residents and BJP leaders recently. One of the most notable demonstrations was the "Walk in Lalbagh. Walk for Lalbagh” rally. Shivakumar expressed openness to hearing suggestions from both the Opposition and the public, emphasizing that his primary focus is on the greater public interest.

Critics argue that the law could facilitate real estate development and infrastructure projects, but the government maintains that it applies exclusively to public utility projects undertaken by government entities, statutory authorities, public sector companies, or local authorities. The amendment affects 1,353 parks in Bengaluru, with 240 acres comprising Lalbagh Botanical Garden and 197 acres belonging to Cubbon Park.