The Karnataka High Court on Sunday issued an interim stay on proceedings initiated by the Forest Department concerning a property in Tumakuru taluk, where a school and orphanage are currently operating.
Justice M. Nagaprasanna passed the order while hearing a petition filed by Shwetha Kumari, who claims ownership of 3 acres and 20 guntas of land located in Vadarahalli village. The petitioner stated that the land was legally converted from agricultural to non-agricultural use on May 12, 2000. By 2004, she had constructed buildings and started Jesus Loves Ministry School, along with an orphanage and associated services.
After two decades, the Range Forest Officer in Tumakuru reported alleged encroachment and issued a notice instructing her to return the land to the Forest Department within 30 days. Though she filed an appeal with the concerned authority, she said there was no response for an extended period.
Meanwhile, a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) was also filed regarding the matter. While that PIL was still pending, the appellate authority issued an order on April 5, 2025, concluding that the land in question was forest property and directing demolition of the buildings within 7 days. The petitioner claimed the order was only served on April 9, and an eviction notice dated April 11 was affixed to the school’s door on April 12, a Saturday.
Read also: