Mangaluru: A complaint has been submitted at the Urwa Police Station accusing Kannada Development Authority (KDA) Chairman Purushothama Bilimale of making derogatory remarks about Yakshagana artistes. The complaint was lodged by Yakshagana artiste Ravi Alevuraya, who claimed that the statements made by Prof. Bilimale insulted the traditional coastal art form and its performers. He urged the authorities to initiate appropriate legal action in response to the alleged remarks, which he believes have caused hurt within the Yakshagana community.
Complaint alleges insult to Yakshagana community
According to Alevuraya, the comments attributed to the KDA Chairman amounted to a direct affront to the dignity of Yakshagana artistes. The centuries-old dance-drama form holds significant cultural and emotional value for coastal Karnataka, and practitioners often react strongly to perceived attempts to diminish its importance.
The complaint emphasised that individuals holding public or cultural positions must exercise restraint, as their words carry weight and can influence public perception of traditional art forms. Alevuraya noted that Yakshagana artistes work tirelessly to preserve the art, and allegations that demean the practice cannot be ignored.
Police clarify legal position
Mangaluru City Police Commissioner Sudheer Reddy confirmed that the Urwa Police Station had received the complaint. However, he clarified that the issue did not fall within the scope of an FIR-based investigation under criminal law.
“This matter pertains to defamation. It is not a case where the police can file an FIR and investigate. The complainant must approach the court,” Commissioner Reddy said, indicating that redressal would require the complainant to pursue private legal proceedings before a magistrate.
Next steps in the case
With the police categorically stating that the matter is civil in nature, the next course of action rests with Alevuraya, who may decide to file a private complaint before the jurisdictional court. Legal experts note that such cases often proceed under defamation provisions of the Indian Penal Code, depending on the nature and context of the alleged statements.
The incident has sparked discussion among cultural circles in the region, with several Yakshagana enthusiasts calling for respectful engagement when speaking about traditional art forms. As the matter progresses, it is expected to draw further attention from practitioners and cultural organisations.