MB Patil Defends Land Transfer to Jindal Steel, Cites BJP Government’s 2021 Decision

Bengaluru: Large and Medium Industries Minister MB Patil asserted on Sunday that there is no irregularity in the state government’s decision to execute the sale deed of 3,666 acres of land to Jindal Steel. He emphasised that the cabinet has decided to implement the order issued (May 6, 2021) during the Yediyurappa-led BJP government, following a High Court directive on March 12, 2024.

Patil dismissed Deputy Leader of the Opposition in the Legislative Assembly Aravind Bellad’s accusation of an internal agreement in the matter as baseless. “If there has been any internal agreement, it must be with his own party (BJP),” he retorted.

Patil explained that Jindal Steel had approached the High Court because the order issued by the Yediyurappa government was not implemented. The court subsequently directed that the order be followed, and accordingly, the current government has taken the decision.

He further noted that Jindal Steel has invested Rs 90,000 crore in the state, creating 50,000 jobs. Patil cautioned that failing to execute the lease-cum-sale deed, even after compliance with the government’s terms, would send the wrong message to investors.

“Our government has not extended any concessions to Jindal Steel, unlike the BJP, which granted concessions to Chanakya University,” the Minister claimed. He added that the land price for Jindal Steel was determined based on the market value that prevailed 20 years ago.

Patil also pointed out, “The previous BJP government gave 116 acres of KIADB land to Chanakya University at a significant concession. The real value of that land amounts to Rs 187 crore, causing a loss of Rs 137 crore to the exchequer. Moreover, this amount has not yet been remitted to KIADB.” He questioned why Aravind Bellad remains silent on this matter.