Sir,

I have been reading news reports about the proposed Viveka Memorial at NTM School premises on a daily basis. While some are for the construction of the Memorial, others are opposing the same.

I would like to say to those who are opposing the Memorial that at the time when the School was in a dilapidated condition I was a Corporator (during 2005-06). To save the School I had got Rs. 8.80 lakh released from Mysuru City Corporation (MCC) towards restoration of the School building. Lions Club also came forward to help and adopted the School.

In fact, the then Deputy Commissioner had inaugurated the restoration work. Lions Club managed the School’s day-to-day affairs so well that the student strength began to increase. At that time the School had a total of strength of 50 students.

Later, a few vested interests used their power and forced Lions Club out of School’s administration thereby affecting the development of the institution so much so by 2012 there were just about less than 10 students.

Now, the land belonging to the School has been given to Sri Ramakrishna Ashram for the construction of Viveka Memorial. The MCC has also transferred the Khata of the above said land in Ashram’s name. The District Authorities have made arrangements to transfer children of NTM School to nearby Government Devaraja School which is run on modern lines with total infrastructure. The students here are getting better education than in the NTM School.

Ironically, people and organisations which had not raised their voices when the School was in a pathetic condition are now creating unnecessary problems by launching ‘Save NTM School Campaign.’ For what end? Can’t they see the bigger picture for our future generation?

I am of the opinion that Viveka Memorial would be a great Cultural and Spiritual Centre that will inspire our youngsters. It will have a modern library, yoga centre, meditation centre and centres to promote Indian culture. Therefore, I request all Mysureans to support the construction of this historical monument that will further enrich the cultural and educational activities of our city.

– D. Nagabhushan, former Corporator , Mysuru, 12.11.2019

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