Kumaraswamy urges release of 2016 NICE project probe report amid farmer compensation claims

In a press briefing at Akkur, Union Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy revisited the longstanding toll issue on the NICE Road, urging Karnataka authorities to publish the findings of a 2016 parliamentary committee investigation.

The committee, chaired by senior Congress leader T.B. Jayachandra, examined the project's legality and compensation to farmers whose lands were taken for the corridor. Kumaraswamy highlighted that, despite more than twenty years passing since acquisition, many farmers have yet to receive any settlement.

He reiterated that the road does not belong to the National Highway system, making the ongoing toll collection unlawful. The minister also dismissed any notion of jealousy towards Chief Minister D.K. Shivkumar, reminding listeners that both leaders have each held the chief minister’s office twice.

Kumaraswamy called on the state government to act swiftly, saying, “If there is even a moment’s time, read the report and address the grievances of the affected families.” He also suggested that the Centre should be approached formally to terminate toll collection, a step he claims has not been taken yet.