A five-acre land parcel being considered for Bengaluru’s much-publicised Skydeck project has become the centre of a legal and social controversy after physically challenged beneficiaries challenged attempts to reclaim the property.
The disputed land, located in Challaghatta village, was allotted to 230 physically challenged beneficiaries through a welfare association in 2025. However, the Bangalore Development Authority (BDA) later issued notices claiming ownership of the land, stating that it was originally earmarked for the development of the Nadaprabhu Kempegowda Layout.
Beneficiaries move High Court
Following the notices issued by the BDA, the beneficiaries approached the Karnataka High Court seeking protection of their allotments. The court subsequently ordered a status quo, bringing temporary relief to those who had received the sites.
The dispute has raised concerns among beneficiaries, many of whom fear losing land that was allotted to them through a government-backed initiative.
Skydeck proposal adds to controversy
The issue gained further attention after reports suggested that the same land parcel could potentially be used for the state government’s proposed Skydeck project, envisioned as a major tourism attraction for Bengaluru. A BDA official reportedly indicated that the land may be considered for the project, although senior officials stated that final decisions have not yet been made and feasibility assessments are still underway.
The Skydeck project, which has undergone multiple location changes over the past two years, is expected to become one of Bengaluru’s landmark attractions once completed. Previous proposals faced hurdles related to aviation restrictions, environmental concerns and site feasibility.
Questions over land ownership
BDA officials have maintained that the land was allocated to the authority by the district administration years ago and that ownership issues must be resolved through legal channels. The authority is expected to present its position before the High Court as the case progresses.
With the matter now under judicial consideration, the future of both the beneficiaries’ allotments and the proposed Skydeck site remains uncertain