Muzrai dept officials' apathy paves way for land mafia
- Muzrai officials’ hand evident behind Vasanthapura temple Kalyani apathy.
- Inaction from higher ups encouraging encroachment.
- Negligence by Archaeology and Muzrai officials.
FollowIt was always suspected but now evidences are tumbling out of the cupboard to prove that the Muzrai Department officials have shown utter negligence in safeguarding the historically significant Vasantha Vallabharaya temple Kalyani. Not only the Vasantha Teertha but in general the laid back attitude of the officials in preserving monuments of history is glaring.
This has encouraged land grabbers, land mafia and real estate goons to encroach upon Muzrai monuments. Even the supposed developmental works that the department has undertaken now seems to be an eyewash to satisfy the numerous initiatives taken up by private organizations and individuals. Any inquiry with regard to the Vasantha Teertha Kalyani is met with responses like “may be it was the handiwork of previous officers”, “we are not aware of it” and “the works are being implemented according to the government orders that were issued during the tenure of previous officers” etc.
Talking to Kannada Prabha, the Commissioner of Muzrai Department, Shadakshara Swamy said, there is no necessity to get permission from the Archaeology Department to undertake developmental works at monuments that are under the Muzrai Department. The Vasantha Teertha Kalyani is under the Muzrai Department and the developmental works are undertaken following government orders.
When questioned about shrinking the Kalyani from its original 7,075 cubic metre to a mere 3,181 cubic metre, he point blank said “the orders were issued in 2015. The Infosys Foundation has undertaken the developmental works. There are no illegalities, the Kalyani is not shrunk.” He denied being unaware of the orders issued earlier. In such a case, it is evident that the previous officials were hand in glove with land mafia. However, the Muzrai Department is avoiding giving any clarifications in this regard.
When contacted, R Gopal, Regional Director, Archaeology Department, said “the Kalyani does not come under the Archaeology Department, hence the department cannot take any initiative to safeguard it.” According to the Archaeology Act 200 metres surrounding any protected monument is prohibited area. Before undertaking any construction in this area and also repair works of monuments, obtaining prior permission is mandatory. Violation in this regard is punishable.
Now, how a temple and Kalyani belonging to Shahaji Maharaj of 17th century, steeped in history, does not come under Archaeology Department and how the Muzrai Department is allowed to swindle it to facilitate land sharks is a question worth pondering.
