Mysuru: Former Minister A.H. Vishwanath has criticised District Minister Dr Yathindra Siddaramaiah over his recent remarks about the erstwhile Mysore Royal Family, stating that the comments had hurt people who continue to respect the contributions of the Mysore Maharajas.
Addressing a press conference at Jaladarshini Guest House in Mysuru on October 29, Vishwanath, a former Member of the Legislative Council (MLC) and Member of Parliament (MP), said the people of Mysuru valued the contributions made by the royal family towards public welfare beyond legal arguments concerning Palace properties.
He accused Dr Yathindra of following in the footsteps of his father, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, by making remarks against the royal family. Vishwanath also questioned the Minister’s comments, referring to the family’s historical contribution to Mysuru and Karnataka.
Vishwanath recalls royal family’s support to Siddaramaiah
During the press conference, Vishwanath recalled the role played by Srikantadatta Narasimharaja Wadiyar, a prominent Congress leader and member of the erstwhile royal family, during the 2006 Chamundeshwari Assembly by-election.
He said Wadiyar had campaigned for Siddaramaiah during the crucial election and that his support had contributed significantly to Siddaramaiah’s victory.
Vishwanath remarked that Siddaramaiah should remember the support extended by the royal family during that period. He said the Chief Minister might not have continued in politics had he lost the important election.
The former Minister expressed disappointment over what he described as the failure to acknowledge the royal family’s past support and contributions.
Says Palace property matter is before Supreme Court
Vishwanath also raised concerns over comments being made about Mysore Palace properties while the matter remains pending before the Supreme Court.
He said it was inappropriate to make statements about the properties when the legal proceedings had not reached a final conclusion.
The controversy began after Dr Yathindra Siddaramaiah made remarks about the ownership of Mysore Palace and its premises. His comments followed concerns raised by Pramoda Devi Wadiyar regarding the organisation of this year’s Dasara celebrations and the treatment of the royal family by government officials.
The remarks have since triggered criticism from various political leaders and organisations in Mysuru.
A.H. Vishwanath postpones release of ‘Bombay Days’
During the interaction with reporters, Vishwanath was also asked about the release of his much-awaited book, Bombay Days.
He said he had decided to postpone its release for the time being, as the book could create a stir in political circles.
Vishwanath also commented on the current political environment, describing it as polluted and corrupt. He clarified that he was not associated with any political party at present.
The exchange has added another dimension to the ongoing debate surrounding the Mysore Royal Family, the Palace properties and the family’s role in the city’s history. The legal questions concerning the Palace remain subject to the proceedings before the Supreme Court.