Bynduru Block Congress Coordinator K. Vikas Hegde has cautioned against potential displacement of numerous economically backward families residing on government land without 11B documents, following a directive from the Udupi Zilla Panchayat Chief Executive Officer's office. Through a recent press release, Hegde revealed that Gram Panchayats have been instructed to compile detailed information on individuals who have built homes and settled on government premises but have not yet secured 11B certification.
While merely gathering data poses no immediate issue, Hegde expressed serious apprehension that the collected information could lead to directives for Gram Panchayats to revoke existing house numbers, electricity connections, and ration cards for families lacking 11B documents. He fears new issuances might also be blocked. Such actions, he warned, would directly contravene the basic rights of citizens and could render countless families currently occupying government land homeless, forcing them onto the streets.
Hegde underscored that the Chief Minister himself previously issued directives to regularize illegal constructions on government land, ensuring residents receive house numbers and electricity connections – a clear precedent for compassionate governance. Furthermore, he recalled that approximately twenty years ago, the government had initiated a 'shelter scheme' specifically to provide housing for families living in huts on government land, demonstrating a historical commitment to their welfare. Constitutional principles, he stressed, recognize housing as a fundamental necessity for all citizens.
Emphasizing the financial vulnerability of those currently living in government housing, Hegde called for a humane approach. He urged authorities to relax relevant regulations and afford these residents a chance to live with dignity and security. Hegde concluded his statement by asserting that if these families are targeted by such measures, he and his party would 'fight fiercely' to protect their fundamental rights and prevent any unjust evictions.
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📰 Source: Kundapra