Former MP Pratap Simha moves HC against Banu Mushtaq inaugurating Mysuru Dasara
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Mysuru: The Karnataka High Court has been approached by former MP Pratap Simha, who has challenged the state government’s decision to invite Booker Prize-winning author Banu Mushtaq to inaugurate the world-famous Mysuru Dasara festival this year.
Simha has filed a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) seeking directions to the government to withdraw the invitation. The petition is yet to be listed for hearing.
In his plea, Simha argued that the Mysuru Dasara, celebrated as the “Nada Habba” (state festival), involves rituals considered sacred by lakhs of devotees. The inauguration is not merely a ceremonial event, but a religious function that begins with lighting the sacred lamp and offering prayers at the sanctum of Goddess Chamundeshwari. According to him, inviting Mushtaq, who belongs to a different faith and has previously made remarks critical of Hindu traditions and Kannada identity, has hurt religious sentiments.
He further claimed that the government’s decision violates Articles 25 and 26 of the Constitution, which safeguard religious freedom and the right to manage religious practices. The petition noted that the Dasara tradition has continued for centuries with the involvement of the royal family and other stakeholders, and accused the government of ignoring established customs while making the decision.
The former MP also warned that the move has already sparked protests and public unrest, with the potential to disturb communal harmony and law and order. He urged the court to impose an interim stay on the government’s decision.
While the state government has said that its intention was to recognise literary achievement and promote inclusivity through the invitation, Simha argued that the decision clashes with religious traditions and public sentiment. He has requested the court to restrain the government from going ahead with the plan.
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Delhi Police on high alert ahead of Lionel Messi's Delhi visit
New Delhi (PTI): Delhi Police has beefed up security in the central parts of the national capital and set up traffic restrictions as global football icon Lionel Messi sets foot in the city, the final stop of his GOAT tour of India.
The Argentine legend is scheduled to attend an event at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on Monday between 1 pm and 4 pm. He kicked off the tour in Kolkata, which turned chaotic. However, the 2022 World Cup champion's Hyderabad and Mumbai visit went on smoothly.
With Delhi ready to welcome Messi, police are maintaining heightened vigil, especially in view of the recent fiasco in Kolkata, where chaos erupted at the Salt Lake Stadium after thousands of fans protested over failing to get a clear glimpse of the icon.
Delhi Police said an elaborate and multi-layered security bandobast has been put in place for Messi's visit. A senior police officer said comprehensive arrangements have been made with a strong focus on crowd management, access control and traffic regulation.
According to police, multiple security rings have been established around the venue, with deployment of additional police personnel along with paramilitary forces to maintain law and order. Entry to the stadium and designated areas is being strictly regulated, and no one is being permitted without a valid pass.
"Anti-sabotage checks, frisking points and surveillance through CCTV cameras form a key part of the security plan," the officer said.
The officer added that quick reaction teams, senior supervisory officers and emergency response units are on standby throughout the event, with public safety being the top priority.
On the traffic front, Deputy Commissioner of Police (Traffic) Nishant Gupta said they have identified three main parking areas for labelled vehicles, including P1 near Vikram Nagar. Vehicles without labels are required to be parked at the Rajghat Powerhouse parking lot and Mata Sundari Lane, from where pedestrians can walk to the stadium.
App-based taxi users have been advised to alight vehicles at Rajghat Chowk and walk. Parking has been strictly prohibited around the Arun Jaitley Stadium, and vehicles found parked there will be towed and fined, the officer said.
The public has been encouraged to use the metro and buses as far as possible to reduce congestion and ensure smooth movement.
Public movement is expected to pick up around 11 am. Commuters have been advised to avoid Bahadur Shah Zafar Marg, ITO, Delhi Gate, Netaji Subhash Marg and Brijmohan Chowk from 10 am till the event concludes.
