Mangaluru: The demolition of the memorial of legendary banker and Vijaya Bank founder Mulki Sundaram Shetty by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has triggered widespread outrage across Dakshina Kannada and Udupi districts, reigniting long-standing resentment over the perceived neglect of the region’s heritage and institutions.
The memorial, situated along National Highway 66 in front of the Sri Durgaparameshwari Temple in Bappanadu, Mulki, was demolished to facilitate the construction of a service road. The structure had been built years ago at the site where Sundaram Shetty was cremated and had become a symbol of respect and gratitude for his immense contribution to society and the banking sector.
According to local residents, the demolition was carried out using earthmovers without prior public notice or any alternate arrangements for preserving the memorial, leading to anger among members of the public, former Vijaya Bank employees and social organisations.
Demolition sparks emotional response
The incident has reopened emotional wounds among residents of the coastal districts, many of whom still harbour resentment over the merger of the Mangaluru-headquartered Vijaya Bank with another nationalised bank several years ago.
Locals had strongly opposed the merger at the time, arguing that Vijaya Bank was not only a profitable institution but also a symbol of pride for the coastal Karnataka region. Many accused political leaders of remaining silent during the merger process and failing to protect a major institution founded in Tulunadu.
The latest demolition has now intensified criticism against elected representatives, with many residents alleging that leaders have once again failed to safeguard the legacy of Mulki Sundaram Shetty.
‘Disrespect shown to a visionary’
Social activist Dinesh Ulepady strongly criticised the manner in which the demolition was carried out, terming it disrespectful to one of the region’s greatest visionaries.
Speaking on the issue, Ulepady said the authorities had reportedly contacted a relative of Sundaram Shetty who held rights over the land and offered compensation of Rs 1.5 lakh. However, according to him, the relative declined the compensation amount and instead requested that the money be utilised for social welfare activities in Shetty’s name.
He alleged that despite this, officials later arrived with a JCB machine and demolished the memorial without informing the family members or local residents.
Ulepady said Mulki Sundaram Shetty’s contribution to society extended far beyond banking, as Vijaya Bank had provided employment opportunities to thousands of people from the coastal region. He also pointed out that the institution played a major role in supporting educational aspirations through student loans, helping transform the socio-economic condition of many families.
“We failed to save Vijaya Bank, and now we have failed to save his memorial,” he said, demanding that the government and NHAI immediately allocate at least half an acre of accessible land in Mulki for constructing a fitting memorial in honour of the banker.
Locals demand respect for heritage
Residents have clarified that they are not opposing infrastructure development or the construction of the service road. However, they said the manner in which the memorial was demolished without consultation or public communication had deeply hurt public sentiments.
Many locals described the memorial as more than just a physical structure, saying it represented the legacy and vision of a man who had empowered generations through banking and financial inclusion.
Criticism has also been directed at local MPs and MLAs, with residents accusing them of failing to intervene or protect the memorial despite growing concerns over the issue.
Protests likely across coastal districts
The controversy is rapidly emerging as a major political and social issue in the coastal belt. Various socio-cultural organisations, members of the Bunts community and former Vijaya Bank employees have reportedly begun mobilising support for protests against the demolition.
Community leaders have warned of large-scale agitations against the central government and highway authorities in the coming days. Calls are also being made for people across Dakshina Kannada and Udupi districts to unite in defence of the memory and contributions of Mulki Sundaram Shetty.
Observers believe the issue could gather further momentum in the region, especially given the emotional connection many people continue to have with Vijaya Bank and its founder.