Bengaluru: Warning that the government would not spare even major builders if they were found guilty of encroaching on public property, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Monday defended the ongoing drive to demolish houses illegally built on storm water drains and lake beds in the city, saying it was neccessary to prevent Chennai-like flooding in Bengaluru.
While he was aware of the pain and anguish of those who had lost their properties over the last few days, he said the government had no option but to make sure that storm water drains were clear of all obstructions to prevent flooding in rain.
Mr Siddaramaiah, who was speaking to reporters after garlanding the statue of the late Chief Minister, S. Nijalingappa in the grounds of the Vidhana Soudha on the occasion of his death anniversary, quipped that the government was doomed either ways.
“If it takes action to evict encroachers it is branded anti-people and if it doesn’t , it is criticised then too. I know it is painful for anyone to see his home crumbling before his eyes, but we have no choice but to clear these obstructions on drains and lakes for the sake of the city’s future,” he said, adding, " Isn't it wrong to encroach on storm water drains when building houses? If the administration is bringing down these illegal structures, why are you finding fault with it ?”
Recalling that the city only recently saw several of its localities flooded in rain, he asserted, “If we do not act now against encroachers, the day may not be far off when most of the city sees Chennai -like floods in the monsoons.”
Responding to a query, the Chief Minister declared he would be the last person to defend any politician or officer conniving with the real estate mafia in taking over public property. “If the building plan is sanctioned illegally, then we will take action against the officials involved. I have already ordered an investigation into this,” he added.
Denying that the state administration was being partial to either big or small builders, he claimed the government could not act unless it had evidence against them. “If anyone has any proof about encroachments made by major builders, then they can approach me with it and action will be taken against them as well,” he assured.
