Objects to shifting of Dr. Rajkumar’s bust from entrance to side wing

Mysuru: BJP MLC R. Raghu Kautilya has alleged a massive scam in the development works being carried out at the Dasara Exhibition Grounds. Raghu Kautilya, also the former Karnataka Exhibition Authority (KEA) Chairman, inspected the premises yesterday and took strong objection to the removal of the bust of Kannada matinee idol Dr. Rajkumar, which was prominently visible from the main entrance of the Exhibition Grounds.

“I have inspected the works as a people’s representative. Though the KEA has received huge funds from the Government over the past three years, there has been no visible development, raising suspicion of a scam involving crores of rupees,” he alleged.

MLC Raghu Kautilya pointing to the space where the bust once stood.

He recalled that a bust of Dr. Rajkumar had earlier been installed opposite the fountain and the lane was subsequently named ‘Dr. Rajkumar Marga.’

“Besides, every part of the Dasara Exhibition Grounds was named after a Jnanpith award-winning littérateur. Now, everything is being erased in the name of development. This is part of a plot to demean our rich culture,” he alleged.

Now the new bust of Dr. Rajkumar relocated to the side at KEA premises.

Raghu also questioned the KEA’s decision to construct zinc-sheet stalls despite announcing that permanent stalls would be built at a cost of Rs. 9 crore.

He alleged that cultural atmosphere of the Exhibition Grounds was gradually disappearing.

MLC Raghu Kautilya inspecting the quality of works at the Exhibition Grounds.

“The Exhibition Grounds now resemble a burial ground. The previous BJP Government ensured that development works were carried out even with the limited grants sanctioned. But now, despite crores of rupees being released, there is no visible transformation and public money is going waste,” he said.

Raghu said he would file a complaint with the Lokayukta over the alleged misuse of funds and demanded a probe into the expenditure.

“While the KEA has received Rs. 25 crore through tenders, the Government has sanctioned more than Rs. 100 crore. Anyone can understand what is happening by looking at the nature and quality of the stalls and the execution of other works,” he alleged.