Mon Jan 19 18:04:42 UTC 2026: # Negligence Threatens Quit India Memorial as Karnataka Information Commission Slaps Notice on Greater Bengaluru Authority

The Story:
The Karnataka Information Commission (KIC) has issued a show-cause notice to the Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA), threatening a ₹25,000 fine for failing to submit a report on the encroachment of the Quit India Movement Martyr’s Memorial site at Mysore Bank Circle by the Shanaishchara Temple Trust. Activist H.M. Venkatesh, of Naija Horatagarara Vedike, brought the issue to light, alleging the temple trust is constructing a statue without proper permissions. The KIC expressed deep concern that the memorial, commemorating students martyred in 1942, risks disappearing from history due to official inaction.

Key Points:

  • The KIC issued a show-cause notice to the GBA for failing to provide a survey report on the encroachment of the Martyr’s Memorial.
  • The Shanaishchara Temple Trust is allegedly constructing a statue at the memorial site without permission.
  • Activist H.M. Venkatesh filed an RTI petition seeking the survey report, which the GBA initially claimed was unavailable.
  • The KIC Commissioner stated that the information sought is of “paramount public interest” due to the memorial’s historical significance.
  • The Commission noted the memorial has been reduced to a “lamp-lighting stone inside the temple.”
  • The KIC has recommended disciplinary action against the Public Information Officer for providing false information under the RTI Act.
  • A joint survey regarding the encroachment was conducted by the GBA and Deputy Commissioner of Bengaluru Urban District in 2022-23.
  • The original memorial stone was installed in 1972.

Key Takeaways:

  • Government negligence and bureaucratic inaction are endangering a historically significant monument.
  • The Right to Information Act is being used to hold authorities accountable for preserving historical sites.
  • Conflict exists between religious institutions and the preservation of secular historical landmarks in Bengaluru.
  • The lack of transparency from the GBA regarding the survey report raises serious concerns about potential collusion or deliberate neglect.
  • The KIC’s intervention highlights the importance of independent oversight in safeguarding national heritage.

Impact Analysis:

The case underscores the ongoing tension between development, religious expansion, and the preservation of historical landmarks in rapidly urbanizing India. The KIC’s strong stance could set a precedent for greater accountability in protecting historical sites and ensuring transparency in government actions. The long-term impact depends on whether the GBA takes swift corrective action and whether the disciplinary measures against the Public Information Officer are effectively implemented. Further, this case might encourage other activists to use the RTI Act to protect similar endangered historical sites across the country.

Read More

Related News: