“Demolition Came as a Shocker”: Dr. H.C. Mahadevappa Stays Calm, Assures He Will Vacate Amid Quarters Dispute

By Neetha Bopaiah, Political Bureau | Bangalore Mail

BENGALURU: Maintaining a calm and rule-bound stance amid an unexpected political controversy, Minister Dr. H.C. Mahadevappa has assured that he will vacate his official residence, even as he expressed deep shock over partial demolition work that was initiated while he was still living inside the premises.

The controversy surrounds the official ministerial quarters occupied by Dr. Mahadevappa, which was recently re-allotted by the government to Minister Byrathi Suresh. Reports indicate that pressure was allegedly mounted on the resident staff to clear the property within two days, despite statutory rules granting ample time to complete the move.

Key details surrounding the controversy include:

 Official Re-allotment: The government quarters occupied by Dr. H.C. Mahadevappa has been formally re-assigned to Minister Byrathi Suresh.

 Premature Demolition: Demolition work targeting the residence’s meeting hall commenced while Dr. Mahadevappa and his team were actively occupying the property.

 Pressure Allegations: House staff were reportedly confronted and urged to vacate within a two-day deadline, overriding the standard timeframe permitted by law.

Refusing to escalate the matter into an outright confrontation, Dr. Mahadevappa offered a poised and pragmatic reaction, emphasizing his commitment to lawful procedures while acknowledging the sudden nature of the move.

“It is my duty to vacate, and I will vacate,” Dr. Mahadevappa stated calmly. “There was still enough time under the rules to complete the process. The government has allotted this house to Byrathi Suresh, and as per law, I am obligated to hand it over. However, starting demolition work while I was still staying inside came as a complete shocker.”

While administrative re-allocations of official quarters are routine, the abrupt initiation of structural modifications while an occupant remains in residence has raised eyebrows in state political circles.