The Bangalore Development Authority (BDA) demolished more than 13 houses on Thursday morning in Ashwath Nagar near Thanisandra, northeast Bengaluru, without any prior notice. The demolition team arrived at 7 a.m., asked residents to vacate immediately, then proceeded with the razing. BDA officials said the houses were built on BDA land. BDA Commissioner P. Manivannan admitted there was a lapse as no notices were served. He told The Hindu, "The BDA will make all arrangements for rehabilitation and bear the costs." Residents said the number of houses demolished exceeded 20. Many displaced families were tenants living there for nearly five years. Despite BDA offering alternate accommodations in Hegde Nagar, the affected families refused to leave, fearing negative consequences. Asiya, a 25-year-old with kidney problems, said, "Now, with nowhere to go, I am forced to stay on the streets." Mohammad Shafeeq added, "My disabled son can't get up or eat. Where do I take him? Will those offering help provide food and essentials?" Other residents helped by providing food and water. Manivannan said the BDA's Special Task Force has reclaimed civic land over three months, verifying documents before demolishing. However, this demolition lacked notice. He noted a probe by retired Justice Niyaz Ahmed, expected in 30 days. Residents claimed many had documents proving ownership or tenancy, with some buying land recently. They alleged the demolition targeted them because a prominent politician owns nearby land. Manivannan remained confident that the land is BDA’s and said records would be rechecked. The situation highlights possible illegal land sales, echoing past local controversies.