The Congress Government’s decision to celebrate the anniversary of 18th Century ruler of Mysuru Tipu Sultan that got marred in a major political row in the State, got a boost on Thursday when the Karnataka High Court disposed a Public Interest litigation (PIl) challenging the State Government’s decision.
The order by a two-member Division Bench headed by Chief Justice Subrho Kamal Mukherjee and Justice RB Budhihal came a day after it questioned the Government on the logic behind celebrating ‘Tipu Jayanti’ observing that he wasn’t a freedom fighter, but a monarch who fought to safeguard his interests. However, the Bench directed the petitioner to make a representation to the State Chief Secretary to consider the objections raised against the event by him.
“The court disposes the Public Interest litigation and directs the petitioner to make a representation to the Chief Secretary to consider the objections raised and pass an order by November 8 with regard to the celebration of the birth anniversary of Tipu Sultan,” the court said.
In his oral observations on Wednesday, Justice Mukherjee had also questioned the logic behind celebrating Tipu Jayanti amid fears of communal tension escalating in Kodagu district and other parts of the State, noting that last year’s event had resulted in a law and order problem after protesters resorted to violence.
The PIl was filed by South Kodagu- based KP Manjunatha. Sajan Poovaiah, counsel for the petitioner, had alleged that Tipu was a tyrant ruler who killed people belonging to many communities. However, public counsel MR Naik had defended the event, saying Tipu was a great warrior who fought against the British.
The Government’s decision to observe the birth anniversary of the 18th century ruler has stirred a major row, with opinion sharply divided among intellectuals, academia and various communities and organisations.
Ahead of 2018 assembly elections in Karnataka this issue has become a major political row between the ruling Congress and the opposition BJP over celebrating Mysuru King Tipu Sultan’s anniversary on November 10. Tipu Sultan who ruled Mysuru State during 1761 to 1799 was one of the first kings to fight the British in successive four wars known as Mysuru wars. It may be recalled in 2015 the celebrations turned violent and two people had died in Madikeri protesting the celebrations.
Meanwhile the BJP has started statewide agitation against the decision of the state government which is celebrating Tipu Jayanthi on November 10.
The Kannada and culture department will be spending Rs 69 lakh for the celebration and a circular has been sent to the local administration in all districts.