How slums are made and razed in Bengaluru

India's rapid urbanization, a hallmark of its economic growth, presents a dual narrative: one of opportunity and another of profound challenge. Bengaluru, often hailed as India's 'Silicon Valley,' epitomizes this paradox. While it attracts talent and investment, its burgeoning population has strained its infrastructure, particularly housing. The article 'How slums are made and razed in Bengaluru' by Rishita Khanna squarely addresses the critical failure of the Karnataka government to provide dignified housing for its urban poor, despite repeated promises of 'housing for all' and various affordable housing policies.

The background to this issue lies in India's post-liberalization economic boom, which accelerated migration from rural areas to urban centers like Bengaluru in search of employment and better livelihoods. This influx, coupled with inadequate urban planning and land scarcity, led to the spontaneous growth of informal settlements or 'slums.' These settlements, often lacking basic amenities like sanitation, clean water, and electricity, become the only affordable housing option for a significant portion of the urban workforce. Historically, housing policies in India have often swung between 'slum clearance' and 'slum improvement,' with varying degrees of success. Early approaches focused on relocating slum dwellers, which often disrupted their livelihoods and social networks, proving largely ineffective.

What has consistently happened in Bengaluru is a cycle of neglect, informal development, and periodic demolition. Despite the launch of ambitious schemes like the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY) in 2015, which aims to achieve 'Housing for All by 2022' (now extended), the ground reality in Bengaluru reflects a significant gap between policy intent and implementation. State-specific housing boards and urban development authorities have struggled to meet the demand, often due to issues like land availability, funding constraints, bureaucratic hurdles, and corruption. The consequence is that informal settlements persist, only to be occasionally razed, displacing thousands without adequate rehabilitation, thereby perpetuating a cycle of homelessness and vulnerability.

Key stakeholders in this complex issue include the **Karnataka State Government** and its various departments (Urban Development, Housing), along with local civic bodies like the **Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP)** and the **Bengaluru Development Authority (BDA)**. These bodies are responsible for policy formulation, urban planning, land allocation, and scheme implementation. The **urban poor and slum dwellers** are the primary affected parties, often migrants, daily wage earners, and informal sector workers whose right to shelter and dignified living is compromised. **Real estate developers and land owners** also play a significant role, often eyeing valuable urban land occupied by informal settlements. **Civil society organizations and NGOs** frequently advocate for the rights of slum dwellers, pushing for humane rehabilitation and inclusive urban planning.

This situation holds immense significance for India. Firstly, it underscores a fundamental challenge to **social justice and human rights**. The right to shelter is implicitly recognized as part of the **Right to Life and Personal Liberty under Article 21** of the Indian Constitution, as interpreted by the Supreme Court in various judgments (e.g., *Olga Tellis v. Bombay Municipal Corporation, 1985*). The failure to provide dignified housing is a direct violation of this fundamental right. Secondly, it has significant **economic implications**. A large segment of the urban workforce living in precarious conditions leads to reduced productivity, poor health outcomes, and perpetuates intergenerational poverty, hindering inclusive economic growth. Thirdly, it exposes critical **governance failures** in urban planning, policy implementation, and resource allocation. The inability to manage rapid urbanization sustainably creates environmental degradation, strain on public services, and social inequality. The presence of large informal settlements can also be a source of political mobilization and social unrest.

Related constitutional provisions and policies include not only Article 21 but also the **Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP)**, particularly **Article 38** (State to secure a social order for the promotion of welfare of the people) and **Article 39(e)** (State to direct its policy towards securing that the health and strength of workers are not abused). The **Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY) - Urban**, launched in 2015, is the flagship central government scheme aimed at addressing the urban housing deficit, with its four verticals including in-situ slum redevelopment, credit-linked subsidy, affordable housing in partnership, and beneficiary-led construction. State-level housing policies and urban development acts are also crucial. The **Right to Fair Compensation and Transparency in Land Acquisition, Rehabilitation and Resettlement Act, 2013**, is relevant when land occupied by slums is acquired or cleared, stipulating provisions for rehabilitation.

Looking ahead, the future implications are critical. If current trends continue, Bengaluru and other Indian cities will face exacerbating housing crises, increased social stratification, and potential for greater social unrest. The ongoing urban migration makes effective and inclusive housing policies imperative. There is a strong need for a paradigm shift from reactive slum clearance to proactive, participatory, and in-situ slum rehabilitation, coupled with the development of robust affordable rental housing policies. Sustainable urban planning must integrate the needs of all sections of society, ensuring 'inclusive cities' rather than merely 'smart cities.' The effective implementation of PMAY and other state schemes, with a focus on transparency, accountability, and community participation, will be crucial in realizing the goal of dignified housing for all. This challenge is not just about bricks and mortar; it's about dignity, equity, and the very fabric of India's urban future.