The Hampi Development Authority has fixed July 16 as the deadline for clearing unauthorized resorts constructed on revenue lands in Anegondi, Hanumanahalli, and Sanapura areas of the taluk. However, resort owners are reportedly pressuring public representatives to delay or stop the action.
Over the past five years, several illegal resorts have been built on government, forest, revenue, and river basin lands in Sanapura and Anegondi. Though owners claim they are promoting tourism, these places are often used for parties and the consumption of intoxicants.
Despite multiple evictions and warnings, the resorts continue to re-emerge—allegedly with political backing and bribes to local officials. Owners profit significantly from weekend parties, festival events, and late-night alcohol-fueled gatherings, while serious issues like drug use and sexual assault continue to be reported.
While authorities occasionally conduct inspections and issue warnings after serious incidents, no lasting action has been taken to stop these illegal activities. As a result, Sanapura and Anegondi have remained hubs of repeated immoral incidents.
Will it happen this time?
Despite multiple notices issued between 2023 and 2024, the resorts remain. In some cases, electricity was temporarily cut but quickly restored. Pro-Hindu and anti-Karave groups have questioned whether the eviction will truly happen this time.
Court steps in:
To uphold the dignity of the Vijayanagara heritage, Hospet Kalyan Kendra filed a petition in court seeking eviction. The court has now ordered the removal of the illegal resorts. Following this, Hampi Development Authority held a meeting on July 11 and finalized July 16 as the eviction date.
Execution Plan:
Instructions have been given to the Hospet and Gangavathi Tahsildars to arrange for JCBs and Hitachi machines for demolition. GESCOM has been tasked with power disconnection, the police will provide security, and medical teams are to be on standby with ambulances. Officials have confirmed that all arrangements are in place.
“We have made all preparations for the eviction operation,” said U. Nagaraj, Tahsildar, Gangavathi.
“Authorities issue removal orders regularly but fail to act. This time, the unauthorized resorts in Anegondi must be cleared for good,” said Pampanna Nayaka, Karave District President.