The Mysore Grahakara Parishat (MGP) has launched a massive protest against the Karnataka government's move to amend the Parks Preservation Act, 1975. Activists warn that the changes could open the door for commercial exploitation of green spaces.

  • Mysore Grahakara Parishat (MGP) led protests against amending the Parks (Preservation) Act, 1975.
  • The amendment could allow up to 5% of park land to be sold, leased, or mortgaged.
  • Protesters fear the move will lead to commercial encroachment by hotels and bars.
  • MGP has appealed to Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot to withhold assent to the Bill.

A wave of discontent has swept through Mysuru following the State government's reported intention to amend the Government Parks (Preservation) Act, 1975. On Sunday, August 30, a significant protest was staged at Cheluvamba Park, where environmentalists, local residents, and citizens gathered to demand the immediate withdrawal of the proposed legislative changes.

The protest, spearheaded by the Mysore Grahakara Parishat (MGP), highlights deep-seated fears regarding the potential loss of urban green cover. The core of the controversy lies in a provision that may allow portions of park and garden land to be diverted for public infrastructure and utility projects, a move activists claim will inevitably lead to widespread encroachment.

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Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that this legislative shift represents a critical turning point for urban environmental policy in Karnataka. While the government may frame these amendments as necessary for 'public utility,' the lack of strict safeguards could transform public sanctuaries into commercial zones, permanently altering the ecological balance of cities like Mysuru and Bengaluru.

The proposed amendment seeks to permit portions of park land to be used for infrastructure, which could lead to the gradual destruction of our green lungs.

Bhamy V. Shenoy, founding-working president of MGP, expressed grave concerns over the specifics of the Bill. He noted that the amendment could permit up to 5% of park land to be sold, leased, gifted, exchanged, or mortgaged. "Hotels, bars, and other commercial establishments could come up on such land, which is a matter of serious concern," Shenoy stated during the demonstration.

Former MP Pratap Simha, who joined the protesters, accused the government of failing in its duty as a custodian of public spaces. He alleged that the amendment could be used to justify large-scale projects, such as tunnels in Bengaluru, potentially impacting iconic locations like Lalbagh. Simha further claimed that previous administrations had already misused park land for unauthorized constructions, and this new move sets a dangerous precedent.

Historical Background

The Government Parks (Preservation) Act, 1975 was originally enacted to serve as a legal shield for the state's green spaces, ensuring they remained dedicated to public recreation and environmental health. Under the current framework, any minimal use of park land is strictly limited to maintenance purposes. The proposed expansion of these powers is seen by many as a direct violation of the Act's original intent.

Did You Know?: Urban parks play a vital role in mitigating the 'Heat Island Effect,' helping to lower city temperatures by several degrees.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the specific concern regarding the 5% rule?
Critics argue that allowing 5% of land to be leased or sold creates a 'slippery slope' where more land is gradually diverted for non-park uses.

2. Who has the MGP approached for intervention?
The MGP has written to Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot, requesting him to protect the environment by refusing to sign the amendment into law.