Bengaluru, Sep 15 (NationPress) The Karnataka High Court convened on Monday to deliberate over a petition filed by former BJP MP Pratap Simha, who is seeking a legal halt on the Congress-led administration's choice to have Booker Prize laureate Banu Mushtaq inaugurate the revered festival.

The case is being examined by a panel led by Chief Justice Vibhu Bakhru. Senior advocate Sudarshan is articulating the arguments supporting Pratap Simha's position. The counsel highlighted the long-standing tradition of presenting floral offerings to Goddess Chamundeshwari during the Dussehra inauguration, expressing concerns over the selection of Banu Mushtaq for this honor.

Advocate Sudarshan further contended that the government's decision to invite Banu Mushtaq was fundamentally flawed. He accused her of having made anti-Hindu remarks and disparaging comments about the Kannada language. Banu Mushtaq allegedly made controversial statements regarding Goddess Bhuvaneshwari and the Kannada flag.

The counsel submitted translations and video evidence of these contentious statements. He also raised issues about Banu Mushtaq's objections to the colors of the Kannada flag, which includes haldi (yellow) and red (sindoor).

Chief Justice Vibhu Bakhru remarked that in this nation, voicing opinions is not an offense. He prompted the petitioner to clarify which fundamental right had been breached, stating, "You too can express your viewpoint in an appropriate forum. Clarify which constitutional rights have been infringed upon," he noted.

The court's decision holds significant implications, as the Congress-led state government's choice of Banu Mushtaq as the festival's inaugural figure has drawn backlash from the BJP and various Hindu organizations. Nevertheless, the state administration has reaffirmed its commitment to having Banu Mushtaq inaugurate Dussehra. Deputy Chief Minister and State Congress President D.K. Shivakumar's assertion that Chamundi Hills is not solely for Hindus has also sparked controversy.

Pratap Simha's petition to the High Court follows the government’s formal invitation to Banu Mushtaq for the festival inauguration, despite prevailing opposition. He challenged the government's choice, affirming that floral tributes should be presented to the idol of Goddess Chamundeshwari during the Dussehra ceremony, which traditionally includes the recital of Vedas, chanting of mantras, and other religious rites, asserting that Banu Mushtaq's views are anti-Hindu.

“The government has unilaterally appointed Banu Mushtaq to inaugurate Dussehra without proper consultations. She has also voiced anti-Kannada sentiments,” Pratap Simha claimed. He further noted in his petition that the royal family of Mysuru has expressed disapproval of the Karnataka government's decision.

He added that the government’s choice to allow Banu Mushtaq to inaugurate Dussehra has offended the sentiments of the Hindu community.

Additionally, three more Public Interest Litigations (PILs) have been submitted to the Karnataka High Court, opposing Banu Mushtaq's inauguration of the historic Dussehra celebrations in Mysuru city.