Udupi: Former Udupi MLA K. Raghupathi Bhat has strongly criticised the removal of Narayana Guru Circle at Bannanje, terming it a grave insult to the revered philosopher and social reformer. He urged the authorities to take immediate legal action against those responsible and restore the circle with a well-designed structure honouring Narayana Guru.
“It is condemnable that a circle bearing a Bank of Baroda nameplate was created in place of Narayana Guru Circle. The removed structure was reportedly discarded in bushes, which is a grave insult to a visionary who dedicated his life to social equality and reform,” Bhat stated.
Circle was named after due approval in 2022
Bhat explained that the naming of Bannanje Circle as Narayana Guru Circle was carried out after following legal procedures under Section 211 of the Karnataka Municipalities Act, 1964.
During his tenure as MLA, the Udupi Municipal Corporation held a general meeting to decide on naming several key junctions and circles after eminent personalities. The Superintendent of Police submitted a report on potential objections, while the Deputy Commissioner confirmed there were none, paving the way for state government approval.
On 16 November 2022, the government officially sanctioned naming Bannanje Circle as Narayana Guru Circle, Kalsanka Circle as Madhwacharya Circle, Diana Circle as Vadiraja Circle, Santhekatte Junction as Koti-Chennai Circle, Brahmagiri Dodda Circle as Oscar Fernandes Circle, and Parkala-Kodange-Saralabettu Circle as Shrirama Circle.
Demand for reconstruction and legal action
Bhat asserted that the municipal council was supposed to beautify these circles as per the government order. However, the removal of Narayana Guru Circle contradicted this directive.
“This is a violation of government orders. Those who carried out this act must be identified and punished. The municipal council must immediately build a beautiful Narayana Guru Circle at Bannanje. If not, we will wage a fierce struggle,” he warned.
Public sentiment and heritage significance
The incident has triggered widespread disapproval across Udupi, with local forums and leaders demanding the preservation of historically and culturally significant landmarks. Narayana Guru, who championed social equality and fought caste-based discrimination, holds a special place in the socio-religious fabric of Karnataka and Kerala.
Many have called for better civic planning to avoid such controversies, stressing the importance of public consultation in matters affecting heritage and community sentiments.
Conclusion
As the controversy intensifies, public pressure continues to mount on the authorities to rectify the situation and honour the contributions of Narayana Guru. Whether the municipal council will meet the deadline set by former MLA Bhat for reconstructing the circle remains to be seen, but the demand for accountability is only growing stronger.