Fri Jan 03 01:39:00 UTC 2025: ## Bengaluru’s Parks: A Battle Over Access and Ownership
**Bengaluru, January 3, 2025** – Bengaluru, long celebrated as the “Garden City,” is facing growing conflict over the use and ownership of its public parks and gardens. The recent disruption of a community reading event in Cubbon Park, one of the city’s largest green spaces, has highlighted the simmering tensions between park authorities and citizen groups.
The Cubbon Reads group, which holds weekly reading sessions in the park, had their December 21st event interrupted by the Horticulture Department. Officials confiscated gift-wrapped books intended for a “Secret Santa” exchange, citing the event’s size (estimated at 1,000 people) as exceeding permitted limits. The group alleges harassment and threats, stating they were unaware of the 20-person limit for gatherings requiring prior permission.
The incident has sparked wider debate about access to public spaces. Similar community groups using Cubbon Park, and other groups utilizing BBMP parks (over 1,200 in the city), have also reported conflicts with authorities. While some support the Horticulture Department’s enforcement of rules against large unauthorized gatherings, others criticize the lack of clear guidelines and what they perceive as overly restrictive regulations.
The controversy extends beyond individual events to broader questions of park management. The privatization of some parks and their adoption by Residents’ Welfare Associations (RWAs) have raised concerns about equitable access. Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar previously mandated that parks remain open throughout the day, regardless of management, but rules like bans on food consumption continue to be debated. Gig workers, delivery drivers, and other marginalized groups argue such restrictions disproportionately affect them.
Citizen activists are advocating for more inclusive park management, emphasizing the democratic process in establishing regulations that benefit all citizens. They suggest a multi-stakeholder approach involving government departments, police, and community representatives. The Horticulture Department is currently working on a new policy for Cubbon and Lalbagh parks aimed at balancing conservation and public access. The BBMP, however, has no immediate plans for similar guidelines, although they clarify that park timings are 5 am to 10 pm, with any restrictions being illegal. The ongoing debate underscores the need for clear, community-informed policies that ensure Bengaluru’s green spaces remain accessible and enjoyable for all.
First Piper 