Mysuru's Chamundi Hills Witnesses Indefinite Protest Against PRASHAD Scheme
Tension gripped the historic hill shrine of Chamundi Hills in Mysuru on Monday as local residents and environmental activists began an indefinite protest. They are strongly opposing construction works being carried out under the central government's Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual Augmentation Drive, commonly known as the PRASHAD scheme.
Works Proceed Under Police Protection Amid Growing Opposition
The controversial project activities continued under heavy police protection, further fueling the anger of protesters. Demonstrators raised multiple concerns about the way authorities are implementing the development initiative.
Protest leaders alleged that officials began the project without sharing crucial details with the community. No information about the project cost, scope, or specific nature of the proposed works has been provided to local residents, creating an atmosphere of suspicion and distrust.
Local devotees pointed out that the car street traditionally used for pulling the goddess' chariot during festivals has already suffered damage. They expressed fear that ongoing construction might cause further harm to this important religious pathway.
Structural Concerns and Heritage Violation Allegations
Protesters voiced serious objections to construction activities occurring within 100 metres of the ancient temple complex. Many worry that completed structures might eventually obscure the temple's iconic gopuram, diminishing its visual prominence on the hillside.
"The digging began barely 70 metres from the temple," explained Rohith Urs of the Hanuma Mala Samiti, who is leading the protest movement. "Villagers, activists, and devotees are appealing to the authorities not to carry out excavation so close to the shrine."
Urs emphasized the structural concerns, noting that the temple is a protected monument and these works could potentially endanger its stability. "There is a serious fear that these works could endanger the temple structure, which is a protected monument. Despite this, officials have initiated the project under heavy police protection," he alleged.
Legal Challenge and Transparency Issues
The protest leader revealed that the matter is currently pending before the Karnataka High Court. "The PRASHAD scheme has been challenged legally, and the court is scheduled to hear the case on February 13," Urs stated. "We demand that all work be halted until the court delivers its verdict."
Nagashayana, a local villager participating in the protest, echoed concerns about transparency. "The authorities have not shared any information about the project and that's why we are opposing," he said simply, capturing the community's frustration.
Political Intervention and Heritage Violation Claims
Meanwhile, MGP working president KS Dinesh has written to Deputy Commissioner G Lakshmikanth Reddy, urging immediate intervention to stop the works. In his formal communication, Dinesh highlighted that the temple is classified as a heritage structure under the city's master plan.
He argued that undertaking such projects without proper clearance from the heritage committee constitutes a violation of established regulations. The letter emphasizes the legal requirement to protect designated heritage sites from unauthorized development activities.
The protest at Chamundi Hills continues as authorities maintain police presence at the site. Local residents remain determined to protect what they consider both their religious heritage and environmental treasure from what they perceive as poorly planned development.
