The Congress government in Karnataka reversed its decision to remove religious symbols from newly installed streetlight poles in Gangavathi, Koppal district, the birthplace of Lord Hanuman. The initial order, which came after a complaint from the Social Democratic Party of India (SDPI), sparked widespread protests from Hindus who objected to the removal of symbols, including a bow and arrow, a mace, and the name of the deity Tirupati Thimmappa.
This is a great victory for the organized struggle of the Hindus in Karnataka
Tahisildars have withdrawn the order to clear the electricity poles with symbols of mace, arrow & bows placed on the roads of Gangavati, the birthplace of Hanuman, after strong opposition from Hindus. https://t.co/0qCbo3iUrX pic.twitter.com/vbI46QIcq4
— 🚩Mohan Gowda🇮🇳 (@MohanGowda_HJS) August 29, 2024
The streetlights, installed by Karnataka Rural Infrastructure Development Limited (KRIDL) in July 2024, were part of a beautification project along the Nagar Cross to CBS Circle stretch, an area known for its deep cultural and religious significance as the birthplace of Lord Hanuman. These designs and symbols in Gangavathi were inspired by similar installations in religiously significant areas like Ayodhya and Tirumala.
SDPI President Mohammad Ali argued that the symbols were provocative and could incite unrest. Following their complaint, the government, through the Tehsildar’s office, ordered the removal of the poles, citing concerns over offending religious sentiments and disturbing communal harmony. The order was issued based on instructions from the District Collector of Koppal.
Muslim leaders under the SDPI protested against the installation of electric poles in the shape of bows and arrows on the roads of Kishkende, Gangavati city, the birthplace of Anjaneya Swami, the god worshiped by millions of Hindus & they demanded to remove such symbols. pic.twitter.com/KUxXnCPJg5
— 🚩Mohan Gowda🇮🇳 (@MohanGowda_HJS) August 23, 2024
However, this decision was vehemently opposed by Hindu organizations and residents, who argued that the streetlights celebrated the town’s heritage. Critics accused the SDPI of using communal harmony as an excuse to suppress Hindu cultural expressions.
In response to the backlash, the Tehsildar’s office has withdrawn the order, following a request from the Executive Committee of the Gangavathi Municipal Council, which had previously discussed the issue. The Municipal Council argued that the installation of the poles was appropriate and that no case should be filed against KRIDL. Officials requested that the case be closed without further action.
This reversal has been communicated to various officials, including the District Collector of Koppala, the Sub Divisional Officers of Police in Gangavathi, and the Municipal Commissioner, for their information and necessary action.
This is another instance of how Hindu unity for our causes can help prevent others from dictating things to Hindus in their motherland.
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