Bengaluru: The Karnataka High Court has adjourned the hearing of a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) seeking rehabilitation and compensation for those affected by the eviction of illegal houses in Bengaluru's Kogilu Layout to January 22. The petition, filed by Jaiba Tabassum and others, came up for hearing before the court on Wednesday.

What is the Petitioner’s Argument?

* Long-term Residency: The counsel for the petitioners argued that approximately 3,000 people have been residing in the Wasim and Fakir Colonies of Kogilu Layout for the last 28 years.

* Eviction Without Notice: It was alleged that houses were demolished suddenly without any prior information, leaving thousands of people homeless and out on the streets.

* Plea for Compensation: The petitioners requested the court to direct the government to immediately provide suitable rehabilitation facilities and financial compensation to the displaced families.

Strong Objection from the Government:

Representing the state, Advocate General Shashikiran Shetty dismissed the claims made by the petitioners:

* False Information: He stated that the claim of people residing there for 28 years is far from the truth and is an attempt to mislead the court.

* Satellite Evidence: He informed the court that the government possesses satellite-based photos of every illegally constructed house. These will be submitted to the court to prove the actual facts.

Next Steps:

The government requested a one-week extension to file a detailed statement of objections regarding the case. After hearing the arguments from both sides, the bench scheduled the next hearing for January 22. Until then, all eyes are on the condition of the displaced residents and the government's subsequent actions.