More citizens’ organisations are joining the movement against the proposed construction of a seven-storey annexe building of the Karnataka High Court inside Cubbon Park. The old office of the Election Commissioner is set to be demolished to make way for the new structure after the High Court recently gave its approval for the project.
An online petition by Heritage Beku, a citizen advocacy initiative that works towards preserving the city’s architectural and natural heritage, has garnered over 6,000 signatures. In addition, several citizens’ groups, such as Citizens for Bengaluru (CfB) and I Change Indiranagar, have leant their support to the movement, which many are calling ‘Cubbon Park Ulisi’.
Srinivas Alavilli from CfB said in a social media post: “It is unfortunate that there is an attempt to destroy a precious heritage structure inside Cubbon Park and construct a 7-storey building. It is against the laws that protect Cubbon Park from any construction activity and does not make any sense. We request the authorities to find an alternate location for this building. Please support this petition drafted by Heritage Beku.”
On Sunday, apart from a protest by the Cubbon Walkers’ Association, a cross-section of people – from children to yoga practitioners – are expected to participate in a meeting of stakeholders.
Priya Chetty Rajagopal from Heritage Beku said, “We are planning a walk through Cubbon Park, talks about Cubbon Park and what it means to them, and expect participation from users of the park, LGBTQ community, cyclists, yoga enthusiasts, children, and art and photography enthusiasts.”
