Mysuru: MLC K Shivakumar has condemned the alleged misbehaviour of police personnel with journalists covering the Mysuru Dasara Jamboo Savari procession on Vijayadashami and demanded disciplinary action against those accused of obstructing media personnel from performing their professional duties.
In a letter addressed to the Chief Secretary and the Director General of Police (DGP) and Inspector General of Police, Shivakumar highlighted the difficulties faced by journalists due to what he described as inadequate arrangements for media coverage during the state festival.
He said journalists played a crucial role in bringing major events, including the world-famous Jamboo Savari, to people across Karnataka. However, he alleged that poor coordination and restrictions on access prevented media personnel from covering the procession effectively.
Journalists allegedly denied entry despite passes
Shivakumar said journalists had traditionally been permitted to enter the Mysuru Palace premises through the Karikallu Thotti gate to cover the Jamboo Savari. This year, however, the police department designated the Brahmapuri gate as the entry point for media personnel.
According to him, police personnel at the Brahmapuri gate allegedly denied entry to journalists despite their possession of official duty passes issued by the Mysuru City Police Commissioner’s office.
He also alleged that journalists arriving in government vehicles were stopped near the gate despite carrying official vehicle passes issued by the Department of Information and Public Relations.
Several journalists who arrived on foot were also reportedly turned away on the grounds that entry was not permitted through the designated gate.
The MLC further claimed that the media gallery inside the palace premises was opened only once before being closed completely, creating additional difficulties for journalists attempting to cover the procession.
Alleged attempt to assault senior journalist
Shivakumar alleged that police personnel attempted to assault a senior journalist during the incident. The episode reportedly prompted journalists to stage a protest against what they considered high-handed behaviour by the police.
He said such incidents raised concerns about the arrangements made for media coverage of one of Karnataka’s most prominent cultural events.
The Jamboo Savari attracts large crowds and significant media attention every year, with journalists covering the procession, ceremonial activities and cultural displays for audiences across the state and beyond.
Shivakumar said the alleged treatment of journalists was inappropriate and that preventing accredited media personnel from carrying out their duties reflected poorly on the police department.
MLC urges disciplinary action and better arrangements
In his letter, Shivakumar urged the senior authorities concerned to initiate disciplinary action against police personnel found responsible for the alleged misconduct.
He also called for directions to the Mysuru district administration to ensure that adequate arrangements were made for journalists during future Dasara celebrations.
The measures sought include clear entry procedures, proper coordination between the police and media personnel, and access arrangements that allow accredited journalists to perform their duties without unnecessary obstruction.
The allegations have drawn attention to the logistical challenges involved in managing media access during large public events, particularly those held within restricted and heavily secured premises.
Shivakumar’s appeal seeks accountability for the reported incident and improved coordination between the authorities and the media during subsequent editions of the Mysuru Dasara festivities.
The allegations against the police personnel were made by the MLC in his letter. No response from the police department or the district administration was included in the information provided.