Bengaluru: The proposed amendment to the Karnataka Government Parks (Preservation) Act, 1975 has ignited a fierce debate across the state. A prominent forum of Kannada writers and progressive thinkers has formally urged the State government to withdraw the amendment, citing grave environmental concerns. Simultaneously, Union Minister Shobha Karandlaje has escalated the matter by writing to Governor Thaawar Chand Gehlot, requesting him to reject the legislation.

Karandlaje described the proposed bill as "regressive" and "draconian." She argued that while the original 1975 Act was designed to safeguard government parks and gardens, the 2026 Amendment creates a statutory mechanism that facilitates their alienation and repurposing for non-preservation activities. The crux of the controversy lies in a provision that allows 5% of park and garden lands to be diverted for "public purposes."

Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that this legislative shift represents a fundamental change in urban governance, moving from a policy of conservation to one of controlled exploitation. The ambiguity of the term "public purposes" poses a significant risk to the ecological stability of Bengaluru.

The 5% provision is not just a statistic; it is a gateway to the gradual erosion of our city's essential environmental services.

The citizen group 'Jagrutha Nagarikaru Karnataka' has voiced strong opposition, stating that parks are critical for clean air, shade, rainwater absorption, and temperature regulation. They expressed deep concern that the 5% exemption could be misused to accommodate government or private infrastructure, much like the current situation in Cubbon Park, where several offices and clubs already occupy space.

There is widespread apprehension that major landmarks like Lalbagh could face a similar fate. With Bengaluru grappling with rising air pollution levels, the group argues that the city requires an expansion of green cover rather than a policy that systematically reduces existing park areas. They have demanded transparency, including mandatory environmental impact assessments and public consultations before any land diversion occurs.

Historical Background

The Karnataka Government Parks (Preservation) Act, 1975 was enacted to provide a legal shield for the state's botanical and recreational spaces. For nearly five decades, it served as a primary defense against the encroachment of urban sprawl into the city's vital green zones.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What does the 2026 Amendment propose?
It proposes allowing 5% of land within government-managed parks to be used for other public purposes.

2. Why are writers opposing this?
Writers and thinkers argue the amendment undermines the original purpose of the 1975 Act, which was strictly for preservation.