Mysuru: Former Corporator and Janata Dal-Secular (JD-S) City President SBM Manju has alleged that this year’s Dasara was more of a festival for Police and Government officials than for the general public.

In a statement, Manju claimed that relatives and associates of Government and Police officials were allowed into the Palace premises ahead of Jumboo Savari. He alleged that the Police, citing security concerns, denied entry to members of the public who held valid passes, tickets and Gold Cards, forcing many to return disappointed.

He demanded immediate suspension of the Police Constable who struck a 5-year-old child on head with a lathi while the child was seated with family members watching Jumboo Savari.

Expressing concern over the possibility of future health complications, he urged the authorities to provide appropriate compensation to the child’s family.

He also criticised the administration for not allowing traditional Vajramushti Kalaga this year, saying it had disrupted a long-standing cultural tradition.

Pointing to a lack of coordination among Govt. departments, Manju said, even Pramoda Devi Wadiyar, a member of the Mysore Royal Family, was reportedly not informed of the Ambari elephant’s name until the last moment. He said, these incidents pointed to shortcomings in the organisation and coordination of Dasara celebrations.