Kolar: In a significant legal setback, former Karnataka Assembly Speaker K. R. Ramesh Kumar has been directed to relinquish alleged encroached forest land, following an order by the appellate authority and the court of the Conservator of Forests. The court has also dismissed his appeal, stating that it lacked merit.
Court orders surrender of land to forest department
Hearing the appeal filed by Ramesh Kumar, the authority upheld earlier findings and ordered that the disputed land be handed over to the Forest Department. The directive has been issued under Section 64(A) of the Forest Act, empowering officials to evict encroachments. The order is based on findings from a joint survey conducted on January 15 and 16, 2025. The survey report concluded that forest land had indeed been encroached upon, forming the basis for the court’s decision.
As per the order, Ramesh Kumar has been instructed to peacefully hand over the encroached land within 30 days from the date of receipt of the order. In case of non-compliance, the Deputy Conservator of Forests, Kolar division, has been authorised to initiate eviction proceedings and clear the land.
Long-standing dispute spanning two decades
The case traces back nearly two decades and revolves around allegations that Ramesh Kumar encroached upon forest land in his native region. The disputed property is located in Hosahudya village of Srinivaspur taluk in Kolar district.
According to officials, land parcels bearing survey numbers 1 and 2, measuring approximately 60.23 acres, are at the centre of the controversy. It has been alleged that while Ramesh Kumar had purchased land from various farmers, a significant portion of it overlapped with designated forest land.
Over the years, the issue has triggered protests both in support of and against the senior Congress leader, reflecting its sensitivity at the local level.
Survey findings strengthen case against Ramesh kumar
The turning point in the case came after directions from the High Court, which had ordered a comprehensive survey to ascertain the extent of encroachment. Following this, a joint survey was conducted by revenue and forest department officials.
The survey report reportedly confirmed that a portion of the land under Ramesh Kumar’s possession fell within forest limits. This finding was subsequently submitted to the government and formed the basis for further legal proceedings. With the appellate authority now endorsing the survey findings, the legal position has tilted significantly against the former Speaker.
Legal and political implications
The latest order is expected to have both legal and political ramifications. Legally, it strengthens the Forest Department’s authority to act against encroachments, especially in cases involving influential individuals.
Politically, the development could prove embarrassing for the Congress, as Ramesh Kumar remains a prominent figure within the party. The case may also provide ammunition to opposition parties, which have often accused Congress leaders of land-related irregularities.
Next course of action uncertain
While the court has issued clear directions, it remains to be seen whether Ramesh Kumar will comply with the order or challenge it in a higher forum. Legal experts suggest that he still has the option of approaching the High Court or Supreme Court for relief.
For now, the focus shifts to the 30-day deadline, which will determine whether the land is voluntarily surrendered or forcibly reclaimed by the authorities. The case underscores the growing scrutiny over land ownership disputes and highlights the increasing assertiveness of regulatory authorities in enforcing forest laws in Karnataka.
