The Deccan Herald 31.08.2010
HC gives green signal for anti-encroachment drive
Hassan. August 30, DHNS:
Karnataka High Court has directed the district administration to go ahead with its anti-encroachment drive for removal of all illegal structures in the city.
According to sources, preparations are going on for second round of anti-encroachment drive all over the city. Clearing encroachment in Devikere Market region has been the biggest drive so far. In fact,the officials had decided to clear encroachment in surroundings areas of Hasanamba temple, Hosaline Road and other important places. But it did not materialise due to political interference.
Amidst all these developments, a traders around Kattinakere Market moved High Court and filed petition questioning launching of anti-encroachment drive in the name of development and road widening.
On August 9, the High Court dismissed the petition and directed the district administration to go ahead with its drive against land grabbers and clear all illegal structures to take up road widening and beautification of city. This court order has sent a strong message not only to land grabber. Armed with this order, the officials are planning to go tough against land grabbers without serving any notice.
Encroachment in cleared areas
Meanwhile, residents want the administration to take up development works where encroachments had been removed. There are instances where shop owners are again encroaching footpath and using vacant land as parking lot. Such problem continues on B M road, around Devikere Market even after clearance of encroachment. Will the district administration launched road widening works is a question to be answered by officialdom.
