Entire Opposition demands action against NICE
The entire Opposition in the Assembly on Wednesday stood unanimous in urging the government to initiate action against the Bengaluru-Mysuru Infrastructure Corridor (BMIC) project being promoted by the Nandi Infrastructure Corridor Enterprises (NICE) for alleged violation of norms. Former Chief Minister H. D. Kumaraswamy wanted the government to take over the controversial project itself.
Initiating a debate on the issue in the Legislative Assembly, Mr. Kumaraswamy demanded that the government should bring a Bill in the ongoing session itself to facilitate such a takeover to provide justice for farmers whose lands were allegedly acquired at throw-away prices.
He alleged that the NICE had sold some of the land acquired for the project at Rs. 15 to 20 crore an acre though the land-losing farmers had been given a compensation of just ₹2 to ₹3 lakh an acre. He expressed concern that no action had been taken against the project promoters though an year had passed ever since a legislature committee had recommended serious action including referring the entire episode to CBI and Enforcement Directorate for a thorough probe.
Toll collection
Pointing out that the Frame Work Agreement with the NICE had clearly barred the company from collecting toll till it built concrete roads, he wondered how the government had allowed collection of toll without this condition being fulfilled.
Mr. Kumaraswamy alleged that some government officials, who helped NICE in violation of rules, had joined the company at higher posts after their retirement from government service.
JD(S) member K.M. Shivalinge Gowda, who is also member of the House committee, expressed concern over the NICE authorities getting stay over implementation of the committee’s recommendation to suspend collection of toll. He took exception to the government not taking measures to vacate the stay.
Leader of the Opposition Jagadish Shettar also urged the government to act sternly against the NICE based on the House committee report.
Bharatiya Janata Party MLA Satish Reddy, who was also a member of the House committee, urged the government to initiate action against erring officials as recommended by the committee.
