Mysore/Mysuru: Mysuru Mahanagara Palike Devaraja Marukatte Badigedarara Sangha (MCC Devaraja Market Tenants Association) has threatened to initiate contempt proceedings against the State Government following statement by Urban Development Minister Byrathi Basavaraj that both century-old Devaraja Market and Lansdowne building will be demolished and re-built in the same heritage style.

In a press release here, S. Mahadev, President of the Sangha, said based on a writ petition filed seeking restoration of Devaraja Market, the Karnataka High Court ordered the State Government to constitute a committee within three months for the restoration of all the heritage structures in Mysuru, in 2019.  When the Court was seized of the matter, it was surprising to see the Minister’s statement on demolition and rebuilding of the market. The Minister should have read about the HC’s observation before making a statement. 

The Sangha will have to initiate contempt proceedings against the Government as the Minister has made an irresponsible statement in public.

Mahadev said both Devaraja Market and Lansdowne Building are quite strong till date and its style captivates tourists. Without considering it, the elected representatives want to demolish these two buildings just for the sake of commission. The Sangha will launch protest in case the Government takes decision to demolish these two iconic structures.