Following widespread public protests and strong opposition criticism, Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister and Bengaluru Development Minister D.K. Shivakumar announced that the state government is open to reviewing the controversial Karnataka Government Parks (Preservation) (Amendment) Bill, 2026. Passed recently during the monsoon session of the Karnataka Legislature without extensive floor debate, the legislation allows the state government to divert up to five percent of land in protected public parks and botanical gardens for public infrastructure and utility projects.
The amendment triggered substantial pushback from environmentalists, urban planning experts, and civic groups, culminating in a massive "Walk for Lalbagh" demonstration at Bengaluru's historic Lalbagh Botanical Garden. Protesters and opposition BJP leaders, including Bengaluru South MP Tejasvi Surya, voiced severe concerns that the law could jeopardize ecological green spaces and pave the way for major infrastructure works, including the proposed 17-kilometer subterranean tunnel road project between Hebbal and Silk Board.
In response to the public outcry, D.K. Shivakumar stated on September 1, 2026, that he would examine administrative files to review how the provision was introduced and consider previous decisions regarding park land allocations. The Deputy Chief Minister emphasized that the state government intends to take feedback from both opposition legislators and the public, promising that the bill could be re-examined and rediscussed in an upcoming legislative session. He assured citizens that the administration remains committed to protecting the city's green cover while balancing urban development needs.
