In Bengaluru, on March 14th, the Karnataka cabinet made a crucial decision regarding the requirement of Palace Grounds land for road widening, just before a contempt case related to the issue was scheduled for a Supreme Court hearing.
Karnataka Revenue Minister Krishna Byre Gowda informed reporters that the cabinet also resolved to offer Transferable Development Rights (TDR) against the acquisition of land.
The Apex Court has summoned the personal presence of the Chief Secretary, Additional Chief Secretary in the Urban Development Department, and the Commissioner of the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP), the governing body of Bengaluru city.
Gowda explained that in 2006, the Karnataka government had planned to acquire 15.5 acres of Palace Grounds near Mekhri Circle for road widening. A compound wall was constructed inside the Palace Grounds accordingly. However, the previous BJP government later decided against the acquisition.
Subsequently, the Mysuru Royal family contested the government’s decision in the Supreme Court, arguing that although the compound wall was built in 2006-07 for land acquisition, it was no longer needed for road widening.
Gowda elaborated that the Supreme Court converted the case into one of contempt, emphasizing that compensation must be paid since the land was acquired. The Court instructed the government to determine whether the land was still required.
He further noted that in 1996, the Karnataka government had designated the Palace Grounds as a park and open space, a decision upheld by the High Court. However, the Mysuru Royal family challenged this in the Supreme Court, leading to an order for status quo.
The Chief Minister expressed dissatisfaction with the ongoing status quo and urged the government to vigorously pursue the case. He emphasized the need to resolve the original suit, believing that it would lead to the disposal of all related cases.
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