Sir,

The write-up “Kodava Heritage Centre Deserted” (SOM dated Mar. 20) should be an eye-opener for the people of Kodagu who cherish their traditions and culture which are very much close to their heart.

The initiation of the project by a Kodava lady (Rathi Vinay Jha) itself is a testimony for the love Kodavas have for the tradition. That same participation is not seen in the powers and administrative personnel by this representative article. 

This shows that people should get involved in issues that are close to their heart and are a necessity for life and continuity of a particular heritage. If this is left to bureaucrats, since most of them are from outside Kodagu, the concern will be indifferent.

Now coming to people’s reps, the people of Kodagu should look at electing persons who work for the betterment of the region in terms  of economy, environment, heritage and culture and take forward the region into current modernisation. The apathy shown by elected MPs and MLAs towards core issues is the grim reminder that right people have not been represented for the welfare of the region.

There are MLAs and MPs who have been elected more than once by the people of Kodagu. Their contribution to the region or their efforts to contribute for themselves at the cost of the region needs to be introspected by the people now than before as Kodagu is at stake environmentally.

The very fabric of keeping Kodagu in its pristine and liveable condition will be at risk if drastic modernisation for personal benefits is executed  with least emphasis for the geology and geography of the region.

– Charles Davison, Mysuru, 21.3.2019

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