Urban Development Minister Byrathi Suresh revealed that most of the homestays and resorts constructed without authorization on agricultural lands in Hampi and Anegundi have been successfully demolished. This information was conveyed by the minister during the Legislative Assembly session on Monday, underscoring the government’s commitment to addressing illegal commercial constructions in the region.
Mr. Suresh, responding to G. Janardhana Reddy of the Kalyana Rajya Pragathi Paksha, during the zero hour, stated that the responsibility of overseeing the tourism areas in Hampi and Anegundi lies with the Hampi World Heritage Area Management Authority. Under the jurisdiction of the Authority, approximately 15 villages near Anegundi, which are part of Gangavathi constituency represented by Mr. Reddy, are administered.
Taking strict action against unlawful practices, the authorities have taken down resorts and homestays that were constructed without proper conversion of agricultural lands for non-agricultural purposes. Mr. Suresh emphasized that these illegal constructions on agricultural lands cannot be legalized. As a result, 27 resorts have been demolished, and 31 have been sealed.
Notably, the Hampi World Heritage Area Management Authority, established in 2003, has devised a comprehensive development plan aimed at safeguarding heritage sites, further highlighting their commitment to preserving the cultural and historical significance of the region.
Former Minister Mr. Reddy expressed his concerns, stating that in Anegundi, over 2,000 families, comprising approximately 10,000 individuals, were engaged in operating homestays or “foreign stays” to cater to foreign tourists. He emphasized that the demolition of homestays in his constituency had resulted in the loss of a significant means of livelihood for these families.
Highlighting the ongoing G-20 Culture Group meeting in Hampi, under India’s G20 presidency, Mr. Reddy acknowledged the significance of the site. The meeting, which commenced on Sunday, is scheduled to continue until July 12.
In order to sustain the livelihoods of the locals and ensure a steady influx of tourists, Mr. Reddy proposed that the villages be exempted from the jurisdiction of the Hampi World Heritage Area Management Authority. Recent protests by villagers and resort owners against the demolitions underscored the importance of this issue, as mentioned by Mr. Reddy.
Addressing the concerns raised by the Authority, Mr. Reddy suggested that 5% of the farmland could be utilized for operating homestays. He further emphasized the need to create alternative arrangements that would enable locals to continue their businesses as before.
Expressing opposition to commercial activities on agricultural lands, Congress member Basavaraj Rayareddi asserted that popular tourist destinations like Hampi and Anegundi had unfortunately become “major drug centers” in Karnataka.