Police Reject Rally Requests to Chamundi Hills

Speedy Summary

• Mysuru City Police have denied permission for Sankalpa Yatra and a religious meet planned by Hindu Jagaran Vedike atop Chamundi Hills.
• The proposed padayatra was scheduled to start at 7:30 a.m. from Sangolli Rayanna Circle and go to the hilltop temple.
• Police cited Chamundi Hills’ status as a forest area, recent leopard sightings, high traffic, ongoing Dasara-related works, and public safety concerns as reasons for denial.
• Another organization had also applied to conduct a jatha (march) and protest on the hills but was similarly denied permission due to law and order concerns.
• Hindu Jagaran Vedike criticized the decision while alleging that it hurt Hindu sentiments, referencing the government’s invitation to writer Banu Mushtaq for inaugurating this year’s Dasara festivities.

Indian Opinion Analysis

The decision by Mysuru City Police reflects an attempt to balance public safety, environmental considerations, and law enforcement in light of logistical challenges atop Chamundi Hills-a site of spiritual meaning but also ecological sensitivity. Key factors like high tourist footfall during Dasara preparations underscore practical limitations on hosting large gatherings without risking disruptions or compromising security. Recent leopard sightings add another layer of urgency in safeguarding participants.

However, these decisions can evoke strong reactions from groups like Hindu Jagaran Vedike who perceive their religious freedoms or cultural expressions as being marginalized. Balancing such sentiments with administrative concerns requires obvious communication by authorities while ensuring all stakeholders understand the reasoning behind such actions.Read more: Link