Daijiworld Media Network - Ramanagara (SP)

Ramanagara, Feb 3: The state government, which had cried halt to the project proposing to install a huge statue of Jesus Christ, touted to be the tallest in the world atop Muneshwara Swami Betta that is also known as Kapala Betta, appears to have climbed down from its position. Many suspect that the spirit of the government and activists would have fizzled out and the concerned seem to have abandoned the issue because of Shivakumar's intimidating image.

Former minister D K Shivakumar, had initiated the erection of a huge statue of Jesus Christ on December 25 at Kapala Betta. He also had got sanctioned ten acres of grazing land for the Kapala Betta Development Trust and had paid the price of the land as prescribed by the government on his own. This had given rise to disputes, and after the issue hogged limelight, the government, pro-Hindu organizations and ministers had attacked Shivakumar for wholeheartedly sporting the initiative. They also had warned that they will not allow this to happen.

Reports say that state revenue minister R Ashok, who in a sudden development had sought report from the officials about the local developments and processes leading to handing over of the land to the trust. However, reports say that the minister has shown lack of interest in following up the matter and getting the report.

A protest march, 'Kanakapura Chalo' had been undertaken at Kanakapura in the district with the support of various Hindu organizations on January 13, urging to shelve the project. Various leaders who met then, had set January 25 deadline for the government to take a final decision on saving Muneshwara Swami Betta. But the government has not followed up with the district administration about the non-submission of the report. This disinterestedness has given rise to certain speculations.

As per information, Kanakapura tahsildar undertook spot visit and sent his verification report to the district to the district administration. The work on the statue project has been suspended. The report that has reached the district administration has not reached the state government. Sources say that the government has asked the district administration to keep tie report pending for now, as no one is in a hurry to implement it.

It may be noted that contrary to public image of having rivalry with other parties on account of his aggressive nature, Shivakumar has friends in all parties and the government. There are also people who claim that Shivakumar's powerful image and stand would have forced the government to fall silent.