IUML leader PK Kunhalikutty on Sunday said the demolition of houses by a government agency in Bengaluru was not comparable to what happened in Uttar Pradesh.
Speaking to reporters on Sunday, the IUML national secretary noted that after discussions with the Karnataka Chief Minister and various ministers, it became clear that the drive was not targeted at any single community but affected residents across the board. He dismissed the backlash as "cheap politics" aimed at the Congress-led government, promising that those who lost their homes would be taken care of through "attractive rehabilitation packages.
"This stance puts the IUML leader at odds with Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, who just days ago described the demolition of homes in areas like Waseem Layout and Fakir Colony as "shocking and painful." The operation, carried out by Bengaluru Solid Waste Management Limited in the Yelahanka area, reportedly leveled over 200 houses to make way for a proposed waste processing unit. Kunhalikutty has insisted that the focus should remain on the promised government support for those displaced.
Beyond the friction over Karnataka, Kunhalikutty also provided an update on the internal dynamics of the United Democratic Front (UDF) back home in Kerala. With the 2026 Assembly elections on the horizon, he clarified that official seat-sharing discussions haven't actually kicked off yet. He was quick to downplay any rumors of friction, stating that the IUML won't be making "unnecessary demands" and is confident they will receive their fair share based on merit. The UDF aims to have its candidate list and seat arrangements finalised by early February, well ahead of the expected March-April election window.
Also read: Stay out of our state's affairs: Shivakumar to Kerala CM
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