The BJP MP for Bengaluru Central argued that a proposed five-acre art complex violates the Karnataka Government Parks Act, 1975, which restricts construction and privatisation within protected park spaces.
Published Feb 28, 2025 | 8:37 PM ⚊ Updated Feb 28, 2025 | 8:37 PM
Controversy surrounds proposed art park in Cubbon Park. (South First)
Synopsis: A proposal to establish an art park within Bengaluru’s Cubbon Park has sparked controversy, with MP PC Mohan urging Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah to halt the project, citing violations of the Karnataka Government Parks Act, 1975. While officials say the government has yet to make decision on the project, Siddaramaiah has assured that the matter will be reviewed.
Bharatiya Janata Party leader and Member of Parliament from Bengaluru Central constituency, PC Mohan on Friday, 28 February, urged Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah to halt a controversial proposal to establish an art park within Bengaluru’s iconic Cubbon Park.
In a letter submitted to Siddaramaiah, Mohan argued that the proposed five-acre art complex violates the Karnataka Government Parks Act, 1975, which restricts construction and privatisation within protected park spaces.
“Cubbon Park, once over 300 acres, has already shrunk to 190 acres. A private ticketed art complex now threatens to accelerate this destruction,” he wrote in a post on X, following his meeting with the chief minister.
“With 88 percent of its tree cover lost since 1973 and pollution rising by 47 percent in a decade, Bengaluru cannot afford another ecological disaster.”
Submitted a letter to CM opposing a private entity’s five-acre art complex in Cubbon Park, violating the Karnataka Government Parks Act, 1975. Demanded an immediate halt and a total ban on altering the park’s landscape, constructing new structures, or any form of privatisation. pic.twitter.com/6wY6lsfrX8
— P C Mohan (@PCMohanMP) February 28, 2025
Meanwhile, deputy director of Cubbon Park, Kusuma G, confirmed to South First that while a preliminary meeting was held regarding an art complex, there has been no further update from the government.
“Since that initial discussion, we have received no notification from the government to proceed. As of now, we are still waiting to hear from higher authorities,” she stated.
The Cubbon Park Walkers’ Association, representing thousands of daily visitors, has strongly opposed the proposal, arguing that it threatens the ecological balance and public access to the historic green space.
The association has accused the chief secretary of keeping citizens in the dark regarding the project.
S Umesh, president of the Cubbon Park Walkers’ Association, told South First, “If they have nothing to hide, the Chief Secretary should give a statement that they are not moving ahead with it. We are not aware if the government is involved in this, but if they are not, we want to bring it to their attention.”
“Cubbon Park is a lung space and a cherished heritage site, not a commercial hub. The proposed Art Park will not only disrupt the park’s ecosystem but also compromise its serenity and sanctity,” he added.
Umesh further stated that the association is prepared to take strong measures to oppose the proposal, including organising protest rallies and seeking legal intervention.
He emphasised the need to safeguard public parks against commercial interests, stating, “If our elected representatives cannot protect Cubbon Park, they should resign.”
Following Mohan’s intervention, Siddaramaiah assured that the matter will be looked into.
However, the Walkers’ Association insists on a clear and official statement from the government confirming that no private entity will be allowed to build within the park.
(Edited by Dese Gowda)
