BJP MLA Accuses Congress and State Govt of Hindering Karkala’s Tourism Project

GG News Bureau
Karkala, 13th Nov. Karkala BJP MLA V Sunil Kumar on Wednesday lashed out at the local Congress leadership and the state government for allegedly obstructing the progress of the Karkala tourism project over the past year. Kumar’s remarks came in response to objections raised by Congress leaders in Karkala regarding the authenticity of the 33-foot bronze statue of Lord Parashurama, which forms a key part of the project.

Speaking to reporters, Kumar, who also served as the former Minister for Kannada and Culture, stressed the importance of the Parashurama Theme Park. The park, located atop Umikkal Hill in Bailoor, Karkala, is expected to enhance local tourism and has received administrative approval and an allocation of Rs 11.05 crore in funding.

“The park, which is situated on a prime hilltop and is expected to be a key stop for travelers between Dharmasthala and Udupi, has been delayed due to political obstruction from the Congress camp,” Kumar alleged. He further pointed out that Rs 4.33 crore of the allocated funds remains unreleased, and the Congress-led opposition had raised doubts about the legitimacy of the statue.

Addressing the controversy surrounding the statue’s construction, Kumar clarified that sculptor Krishna Naik, who was recently detained following a private complaint, had sought permission from the district administration to realign the statue based on expert recommendations. The National Institute of Technology Karnataka (NITK), Surathkal, had suggested minor adjustments in the statue’s alignment, leading to its temporary disassembly. However, Congress leaders have questioned the statue’s authenticity, claiming that it was not made from bronze, Kumar alleged.

Kumar also raised concerns about the slow release of funds for the project. While the tourism department was supposed to release Rs 6.5 crore for the project, only Rs 2.67 crore has been disbursed so far. With the state’s financial situation reportedly stalling the release of the remaining funds, Kumar emphasized that Karkala’s tourism development is being hindered due to political motives.

Rejecting allegations of corruption, Kumar reiterated that the statue was temporarily removed for minor adjustments as recommended by NITK experts and would be reinstalled once the realignment was completed.