The Karnataka High Court has directed the state government to immediately stop all road widening, evictions, or related operations linked to rajakaluve encroachment clearances until strict legal procedures are followed.
In a February 20, 2026 ruling on a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) concerning encroachments in the Sarakki Lake buffer zone, a Division Bench headed by Chief Justice Vibhu Bakhru and Justice C.M. Poonacha ordered the restoration of the rajakaluve, lake buffer zone, and main road bund to their original state.
However, the court made it crystal clear any action against alleged encroachers must be preceded by proper legal notices, opportunity to be heard, and adherence to principles of natural justice. Arbitrary demolitions or forced clearances without due process will not be permitted.ZENEME Bracelet Rhodium-Plated White American Diamond Studded Handcrafted Reticulated Cuff Adjustable Bracelet For Women and Girls
This order effectively serves as an indirect stay on hasty rajakaluve-related road widening or clearance drives across Bengaluru.
While rajakaluve restoration is critical to prevent recurring floods in the city, the court has repeatedly intervened in cases where residents, farmers, and private property owners claimed their lands were wrongly classified as rajakaluve or buffer zones.Weather Department’s Failure Becomes a Curse for Farmers: CAG Shocks Siddaramaiah Government..!
Similar stays or notices have been issued in areas like Yelahanka, KR Puram, Mahadevapura, Bellandur, and Varthur, where large-scale eviction drives sparked protests and legal challenges.
The ruling increases pressure on the BBMP (now Greater Bengaluru Authority), Revenue Department, and other agencies to ensure transparency, fair procedure, and environmental protection. Disregarding citizens’ rights risks prolonged litigation and further delays in flood mitigation efforts.Finally, Trump hints at ending the Operation Epic Fury
The government must now comply by conducting accurate surveys, forming the mandated committee, and proceeding only through lawful channels.
Failure to do so could worsen Bengaluru’s chronic flooding and waterlogging crises. Citizens and affected parties should closely monitor implementation and raise their voice if due process is violated.Sasikala-Ramadoss Alliance: A New Battle in Tamil Nadu..!