Lamp Posts with Hindu Religious Symbols in Karnataka's Koppal Sparks Row, Removal Order Issued

Bengaluru: A fresh controversy has erupted in Karnataka's Koppal, over lamp posts adorned with Hindu religious symbols such as Lord Ram's bow, Lord Hanuman's mace, and Lord Venkateswara's symbol. The lamp posts, installed by the Karnataka Rural Infrastructure Development Corporation (KRIDL) in Gangavathi taluk, have sparked a heated debate following objections raised by the Social Democratic Party of India (SDPI).

The SDPI filed a complaint with the district administration, arguing that the religious symbols could incite communal tensions. As a result, the Koppal district administration has ordered the removal of the lamp posts, citing concerns over potential communal issues. The administration has also mandated action against KRIDL for the installation and requested a compliance report.

Salim Manryar, SDPI Koppal President, stated, “The plea we filed with the Municipal Commissioner stated that the logos used are unconstitutional. We demanded that these logos be cleared to maintain a peaceful atmosphere here. That's our plea.”

He further added, “In places like Mantralaya, you might have observed the 2016 orders - because communal riots are taking place here over petty issues. This should be avoided. To avoid this, an equal viewpoint should be there. We don't have problems with street lights; we shall support MLAs for such investments in developmental works. But only one community must not be considered like in this case.”

Manryar indicated that if their plea is not accepted by the Municipal Commissioner, they would escalate the matter to the CEO and, if necessary, the Deputy Commissioner. “We will see what all can be done according to the law,” he said.

Meanwhile, Janardhan Reddy, Gangavathi MLA, defended the installation, stating, “Installing street lights with Hanuman 'Namas' is aimed at creating a spiritually charged, devotion-filled environment in all such holy places. From Tirupati, and roads leading to such holy places - airports or railway, bus stands - we are trying to bring in a devotion-filled environment. We passed a resolution in the Municipal Corporation yesterday. Tahsildar and other authorities have received this notice. Nobody should politicize this issue; it's God's work. God will decide what work should be carried out.”

The lamp posts were inspired by similar structures in Ayodhya and were installed near Anjanadri Hill, believed to be the birthplace of Hanuman. This connection to the region's religious heritage was cited as the reason for their installation.

Gangavati Tahsildar Withdraws Order to Remove Religious Electric Poles After Public Outcry

After facing backlash from the public and political leaders, Gangavati Tahsildar, U. Nagaraj, has withdrawn the controversial order to remove the electric poles. The initial order, issued following a complaint from the SDPI, had instructed the police to take down the poles and file an FIR against KIRDL, the organization responsible for their installation. However, due to mounting pressure from local leaders, including MLA Janardhana Reddy and C.T. Ravi, the decision was reversed, allowing the poles featuring symbols of Tirupati, Anjaneya, and Srirama to remain in place.of the order.