Mangaluru: MLA Vedavyasa Kamath raised a sharp objection in the assembly, accusing the state Congress government of interfering with Sri Krishna Janmashtami celebrations in Dakshina Kannada district. He said the restrictions imposed in the name of law had directly hurt the sentiments of Hindus.
He pointed out that Dakshina Kannada is renowned for its vibrant religious traditions. Festivals in this region are naturally celebrated with grandeur, with rituals like Kola, Nema, Yakshagana, and Brahmakalash taking place throughout the year. In line with this heritage, Janmashtami is observed with devotion and festivity. However, when the police arrived at 6 p.m. and seized sound systems, cultural events such as the Krishnavesha competition, Bharatanatyam, and Rasamanjari came to a halt. This left devotees, especially first-time participants, deeply disappointed.
Kamath strongly criticized the government for filing cases against event organizers and sound service providers, calling it an insult to tradition. He reminded that even though regulations existed during the BJP government, festivities were never disrupted.
Questioning the logic of police directives, he said, “How can they dictate that no program be held after 10:30 p.m. and that the breaking of curd pots should be postponed to the next day?”
He warned that in the coming weeks, the district will celebrate major festivals like Ganesh Chaturthi, Navratri, and Hulivesha. The Congress government, he said, must ensure that devotional programs are not hindered, or else it risks facing the wrath of the people.