Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (TP)

Udupi, Feb 20: Congress leader Muniyal Uday Kumar Shetty has demanded the reconstruction of the Parashurama statue at Umikkal Kunj in Karkala, calling the current fibre statue a "fabrication" that has offended local religious sentiments.
He emphasised that the statue should be rebuilt with respect for religious traditions and assured full government support if religious organisations take the lead in the efforts.

Addressing the media on Thursday, February 20, Shetty expressed his disappointment over the construction of the fibre statue, saying it had damaged Karkala’s reputation. “When I first heard the news about the statue, I was thrilled. But I was deeply disappointed when I found out it was made from fibre, disrespecting our religious sentiments. It was presented as a tourism project, but the site was approved without proper authorization,” he said.

Shetty criticised officials who, under pressure from former minister Sunil Kumar, allowed the statue to be built at the Gomala location. “This is a painful issue for our religious community. It’s unfortunate that political pressure led officials and sculptors to make such decisions,” he added.

Highlighting the importance of maintaining religious traditions, Shetty pointed out the sacred significance of Umikkal Kunja, which is believed to house the sacred footprints of Koti Chennaya. "Despite warnings from elders, a large stone was broken and removed from the site. Only those familiar with the area know the full extent of the issues that arose during the statue's placement. This project has harmed our religion, culture, and practices,” he said.

Shetty called for the statue to be rebuilt with respect for religious values and emphasised that the work should be done with prestige. “The statue should be reconstructed with due reverence, and the process must respect religious sentiments,” he stated.

Shetty also criticised the BJP government’s failure to preserve the Gomala site during its tenure. “Twice, the BJP government failed to reserve this sacred land for religious purposes, despite requests from the then Karkala Minister of Kannada and Culture,” he noted.

He urged religious and cultural organisations to step forward and help resolve the situation. “To restore the religious sanctity of the place, the government must make a genuine effort. The ongoing investigation into the statue is a step in the right direction, and we must focus on finding a solution that stays true to the facts,” Shetty said.

Shetty called on the public to seek the truth and avoid being misled. “Let us focus on the truth and not mislead the people. We should work together to achieve success,” he added.