Karnataka Government to Withdraw Controversial Parks Amendment Bill

The Karnataka government decided to withdraw the 2026 Parks Amendment Act following widespread public backlash and protests from citizen groups and resident welfare associations.

The legislation, passed last week without discussion, aimed to allow up to 5 percent of park land to be used for public infrastructure projects like the 17-km tunnel road.

Chief Minister DK Shivakumar plans to reintroduce the bill in the Assembly to allow for formal opposition debate, addressing concerns regarding the preservation of heritage sites like Lalbagh.