Mysuru: Ayub Khan, Chairman of Karnataka Exhibition Authority (KEA), today denied allegations that the relocation of Dr. Rajkumar’s bust was intended to disrespect the late Kannada actor. “I have immense respect for Dr. Rajkumar. I have never done nor will I ever do, anything to disrespect him. He is an inspiration to me,” he said.

Recalling his tenure as Mayor in 2008, Khan said he had named a park near Chamaraja Circle after Dr. Rajkumar and that programmes were regularly organised to honour the actor.

He said the bust at the Exhibition Grounds was shifted only after discussions with Kannada organisations, Rajkumar fan associations and other stakeholders.

“We called all the organisations and held discussions before identifying the new location. Everyone agreed and gave it in writing with their signatures. We had also discussed the matter with Raghu Kautilya at the time and took his suggestion before shifting it,” he said.

Khan said the bust had been moved only about 20 feet to the side and placed under the shade of a tree within the Exhibition Grounds so that visitors could continue to pay their respects.