Amid intense pushback, Karnataka Cabinet decides to withdraw controversial Parks amendment Bill
The Bill will be opened for public discussion before being reintroduced again in the next legislature session.
The Karnataka Cabinet, under pressure from various groups, announced on Thursday (September 3, 2026) the withdrawal of the Karnataka Government Parks (Preservation) (Amendment) Bill, 2026. The controversial bill, which had allowed the alienation of up to 5% of park and garden land for public infrastructure, would now be subject to public discussion before being reintroduced in the next legislature session. The Governor has been informed of this decision.
The bill, which was passed in the Monsoon Session without discussion, faced significant opposition from the Opposition and environmental groups. Thousands of citizens gathered in protest at Lalbagh on August 30, arguing that the amendment bill aimed to facilitate a tunnel road project by taking over an acre of land from Lalbagh. Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar had acknowledged the need for review following intense pressure.
In light of the farmers' distress caused by severe drought, the Cabinet also decided to hold a three-day special session of the Karnataka Legislature from September 21. This session will focus on detailed discussions about the farmers' plight and its impact on the public. Additionally, the Kasturirangan report on the Western Ghats will be discussed in depth during this session.
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