Is Everything Being Done Lawfully for India’s Tallest Jesus Statue Installation?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- 10 acres of land allocated for the statue in Kanakapura.
- Legal disputes have halted construction.
- Shivakumar emphasizes interfaith respect.
- Protests from BJP and Hindutva groups.
- Community support and criticism are prominent.
Bengaluru, Dec 20 (NationPress) Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar proclaimed on Saturday that all procedures have been followed legally regarding the establishment of the nation’s tallest Jesus statue in his constituency of Kanakapura.
“I am dedicated to securing land for the Baldwin institution in North Bengaluru. In my Kanakapura Constituency, I have facilitated the allocation of 10 acres of government land to erect a 100-foot Jesus statue. I have paid the required fees set by the government for this,” stated Shivakumar during the United Christmas celebration in Bengaluru, which was organized by the Baldwin Methodist Education Society under the auspices of the Methodist Church in India.
He acknowledged that he has faced criticism and backlash, emphasizing that the issue is currently with the court and that everything has been conducted lawfully.
“I have respect for all religions and a strong belief in humanity. At the Bishop’s request, I wish to assure that I will meet his expectations,” he added.
The construction of the proposed 114-foot Jesus statue in the Kanakapura area is presently halted due to a Karnataka High Court ruling and ongoing legal disputes regarding the government's land allocation.
The BJP and Hindutva organizations have organized substantial protests against the statue's construction.
The initiative, led by Shivakumar and the Harobele Kapalabetta Development Trust, aims to create one of the tallest monolithic Jesus statues on Kapalabetta hill in Harobele village.
Shivakumar arrived two hours late for the United Christmas celebration due to his involvement in a protest at Freedom Park earlier that day.
He noted that the protests concerning the National Herald case and the MGNREGA issue were conducted under his guidance, which contributed to his delay.