Kolar, 26 June

Tensions erupted outside Masthi Police Station in Malur taluk in Kolar on Friday as hundreds of supporters of former MLA KS Manjunath Gowda protested against an FIR filed against him. The police registered the case after JD(S) leader Hoodi Vijayakumar alleged Gowda trespassed on disputed land in Agalakunte village. 

Gowda insists the land belongs to the government and claims revenue records have been forged to encroach upon it. Protesters accused the police of acting under political pressure and demanded action against the Circle Inspector. 

Deputy Superintendent Krishnappa visited the scene and assured Gowda that the allegations would be investigated. Gowda has been petitioning authorities over alleged manipulation of revenue records to facilitate land encroachment. 

Vijayakumar, who states the land was bought by associates, lodged the complaint on Thursday. Land disputes have increased due to rising prices linked to the Chennai-Bengaluru Expressway and industrial expansion. 

The government has set up a committee to probe irregularities in land records at the Taluk Office.