Mysore, T. Narasipur: A clearance drive launched in Survey No. 7 near Gopalpur in T. Narasipur town of Mysore district triggered tension on Monday, as JCBs rolled in to demolish encroachments on government land.
The eviction, conducted under tight police security, was spearheaded by officials from the Municipality Department. The operation, carried out with the support of local law enforcement, led to heated arguments between officers and residents, especially among Dalit families, who expressed fear and shock over the sudden clearance without prior notice.
The atmosphere at the site grew tense, prompting additional police deployment to prevent any unrest. Residents, particularly from the Dalit community, voiced concerns over selective enforcement of eviction laws.
Advocate Prakash strongly criticized the authorities, alleging discrimination. He claimed that while huts built by Dalits were swiftly demolished, no action was taken against illegal constructions on municipal property — such as a bar and restaurant on Link Road run by a bar owner and a commercial complex built by Congress members on the Hullalli canal.
He accused the administration of bias, stating that only vulnerable communities were being targeted, while influential encroachers were left untouched. Despite this, officials maintained that the action was part of a routine anti-encroachment drive and denied any selective treatment.
The incident has sparked widespread debate and renewed calls for fair and equal application of land laws, regardless of political or social standing.