Land Encroachment Case: Karnataka HC Halts SIT Probe Against HD Kumaraswamy

Karnataka High Court

The Karnataka High Court on Thursday granted interim relief to Union Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy by staying the Special Investigation Team inquiry into alleged land encroachment in Kethaganahalli village, located in the Ramanagara district.

The SIT, constituted by the state government in January 2025, was tasked with probing accusations that the former chief minister was involved in the illegal occupation of government land. However, Kumaraswamy challenged the legality of the investigation, prompting judicial scrutiny.

Court Questions SIT’s Legitimacy

Hearing the matter, Justice E.S. Indiresh noted a critical procedural lapse—there was no official notification issued alongside the government order that formed the SIT. Taking cognizance of this irregularity, the court temporarily stayed the SIT’s formation as well as the summons served to Kumaraswamy. The stay will remain in effect until the case is heard in detail.

The High Court also directed the government advocate to file a formal response to Kumaraswamy’s petition. The JD(S) leader was represented by senior advocate Udaya Holla and advocate Nishanth A.V. during the proceedings.

Allegations Of Political Targeting

The court’s decision marks a significant reprieve for Kumaraswamy, who has repeatedly alleged that the inquiry is politically motivated. The Union Minister has maintained that he legally purchased the disputed land back in 1984 and insists that the current probe is part of a vendetta orchestrated by the Congress-led state government under Chief Minister Siddaramaiah.

Slamming the ongoing land survey in Ramanagara district, Kumaraswamy described it as politically charged. “Earlier, SITs were headed by IPS officers. Now even IAS officers are leading them,” he remarked sarcastically, raising questions over the composition and independence of the investigation team.

‘I Have Nothing to Hide,’ Says Kumaraswamy

In his defense, Kumaraswamy further claimed that he holds documentary evidence exposing the involvement of others in illegal land dealings. “I haven’t looted government land like Siddaramaiah. Let them investigate. I have nothing to hide,” he asserted, turning the focus back on his political opponents.

As the legal battle unfolds, the case has stirred political controversy in Karnataka, with both sides trading sharp accusations. The High Court is expected to take up the matter for further hearing soon.