The controversy over the ownership of over 2,000 acres of prime land near the Chamundi Hills is snowballing with BJP MLC, G. Madhusudan and district-in-charge minister S.A. Ramdas now crossing swords on the issue. While the Mysore royal family has claimed ownership of the property and Mr Ramdas wants a judicial probe into the matter, Mr Madhusudhan continues to insist the land belongs to the state government.
“This is a revenue dispute, not a case of rioting. A judicial probe into the matter is meaningless. The inquiry should be conducted either by the Principal Secretary (Revenue), Additional Chief Secretary or Regional Commissioner. I feel Mr. Ramdas is ignorant about the issues involved here,” Mr Madhusudan told reporters here on Saturday.
Demanding suspension of Mysore Deputy Commissioner, P.S. Vastrad, the MLC alleged he had converted the land in Kurbarhalli survey number 4 and Alanahalli survey number 41 from ‘B’ Kharab to ‘A’ Kharab under pressure from the real estate lobby and politicians. “Criminal action should be initiated against all those involved,” he demanded.
Asked about the differences between him and Mr. Ramdas on the issue, the MLC said it was nothing personal. “I am fighting in the interest of the people. I demand a proper survey. It’s unfortunate that Mr. Ramdas didn’t call me to discuss the matter, which is why I am forced to go to the media on this,” he said.