In a contentious move that has sparked a debate over religious symbolism and public decorum, the Congress-led Karnataka government has ordered the removal of decorative electric lamps along the streets of Gangavathi taluka, believed to be the birthplace of Hanuman Ji. The lamps, which feature ornamental depictions of a mace (‘Gada’) and a bow (‘Dhanush’), symbolised the weapons associated with Hanuman Ji and Bhagwan Ram. The removal directive, issued by Koppal Tehsildar Nagaraj under verbal instructions from the deputy commissioner, has intensified tensions within the community.
The directive was issued in response to objections raised by the Social Democratic Party of India (SDPI), the political wing of the banned Popular Front of India (PFI). SDPI claimed that the lamps displayed “Hindu religious symbols” that were inappropriate for public spaces and could potentially harm communal harmony. Following their complaints, the administration not only ordered the removal of these decorative lamps but also sought legal action against the Karnataka Rural Infrastructure Development Corporation (KRIDL), which was responsible for the installation.
Tehsildar’s directive sparks public outcry
According to an order dated August 28, sent to the local police inspector, the Tehsildar directed the immediate dismantling of electric poles along the road from Julaynagar to Rana Pratap Circle in Gangavathi Nagar. These poles, decorated with symbols associated with Hindu deities, were part of a larger beautification project for Anjanadri Hill, a significant pilgrimage site revered as the birthplace of Hanuman Ji.
The order emphasised concerns that the presence of these religious symbols could disrupt communal harmony in the area, suggesting that the installation might incite public unrest. “The poles are located in a jurisdiction that falls under the city council, and their installation could harm religious harmony and sentiments,” the order noted.
Shame on Hindu Hater Congress!
Gangavathi, Karnataka is birthplace of Bhagwan Hanuman Ji. Street lights in shape of Gada, Bow and Arrow had been installed there.
SDPI wrote to Congress govt saying “these symbols threaten social peace”
Congress Govt has ordered removal of light… pic.twitter.com/Uw9qzde5R7
— Ankur Singh (@iAnkurSingh) August 29, 2024
Development initiative meets resistance
The beautification of Anjanadri Hill, inspired by models like Ayodhya and Tirupati, was a significant promise made by MLA Janardhana Reddy during his election campaign. The decorative poles were intended to enhance the spiritual ambiance for devotees visiting the site, and their installation was seen as a step towards highlighting the cultural heritage of Gangavathi.
However, the SDPI opposed the move, arguing that the images of the mace and bow represent specific Hindu symbols that are inappropriate for public infrastructure in a diverse city. They submitted a formal petition to the Gangavathi Municipal Commissioner, insisting on the removal of these poles to maintain communal peace.
Hindu leaders defend the project
In response, Hindu leaders and supporters of the development project have voiced strong opposition to the administration’s actions, accusing the SDPI of attempting to undermine the region’s cultural heritage. Speaking to Organiser, Koppal BJP General Secretary Shiva Kumar Araker condemned the decision, stating, “These symbols are not meant to hurt anyone. They are a tribute to the religious significance of Anjanadri, which attracts millions of pilgrims annually.”
He further criticised the objections raised by the SDPI, stating, “If today they demand the removal of these symbols, tomorrow they might question the very name ‘Anjanadri,’ which is synonymous with Hanuman Ji. We are tolerant of daily loudspeaker prayers, but our symbols are targeted in the name of communal harmony.”
MLA Janardhana Reddy also defended the project, urging the Municipal Council to support the initiative rather than fueling unnecessary controversy. “The symbols on the poles are meant to inspire devotion among visitors and beautify the approach to a significant pilgrimage site,” he said. “We must respect the cultural traditions of our land.”
Broader implications and future protests
The controversy has brought to the forefront the ongoing challenges of balancing cultural heritage with communal harmony in a pluralistic society. Hindu organisations have announced plans to challenge the Tehsildar’s order legally, arguing that the removal of the lamps would be a setback for the development of Anjanadri Hill, a project supported by successive state governments.
Araker indicated that protests would be staged if any attempts were made to dismantle the decorative lamps. “This is not just about street lights; it’s about our heritage and traditions. We will fight this legally and on the streets if necessary,” he declared.
