Bengaluru: Greater Bengaluru Development Minister Krishna Byre Gowda on Friday felicitated civic officials who were allegedly assaulted while carrying out an anti-encroachment drive in Bengaluru’s Shivajinagar earlier this week.
At a function held at Vikasa Soudha, the Minister praised the officials of the Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA) for their commitment and courage in continuing the operation despite facing resistance and physical assault.
Minister assures government’s support
Addressing the officials, Krishna Byre Gowda commended their professionalism in carrying out their duties under challenging circumstances.
“I salute your dedication and apologise for what you had to endure. The government stands firmly with you,” he told the officials during the felicitation programme.
The Minister reiterated that the government would fully support civic staff carrying out lawful duties to protect public spaces and improve urban infrastructure.
Officials attacked during footpath clearance
The incident occurred on Tuesday near the Shivajinagar Bus Stand, where GBA officials were conducting an anti-encroachment operation as part of the authority’s ongoing Safe Footpath Campaign.
The campaign aims to reclaim pedestrian footpaths by removing illegal structures, unauthorised extensions and other obstructions that hinder safe movement for the public.
According to officials, a group of miscreants allegedly attacked members of the civic team while they were clearing encroachments in the area.
Safe Footpath Campaign continues
Despite the attack, the Greater Bengaluru Authority has indicated that its drive against illegal encroachments will continue across the city.
The campaign is part of broader efforts to improve pedestrian infrastructure, ensure safer walkways and reclaim public spaces occupied by unauthorised structures.
The government has also reaffirmed its commitment to protecting civic officials carrying out enforcement duties and maintaining law and order during such operations.