Mysore Grahakara Parishat plans silent protest against Parks’ Act amendment

The Mysore Grahakara Parishat (MGP) has planned a silent protest in Mysuru on August 30 against the State government’s reported move to amend the Government Parks (Preservation) Act, 1975.

The proposed amendment, passed by the State Assembly, seeks to permit portions of park and garden land to be used for public infrastructure and utility projects. MGP has expressed concern over the provision that could allow up to 5% of park land to be “sold, leased, gifted, exchanged or mortgaged”.

MGP’s founding-working president Bhamy V. Shenoy and working president S.K. Dinesh have written to Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot urging him not to give his assent to the proposed amendment to the Act, arguing that the move will result in destruction of parks. They urged him not to sign the Bill to save the State’s parks and thereby protect the environment.

According to MGP, the existing Act permits 5% of park land to be used only for park maintenance. It has opposed expanding the provision, stating that it could open the way for the gradual diversion of parks for purposes other than their intended use.

The organisation has also warned that such a move could have a long-term impact on the environment at a time when cities are increasingly facing the effects of climate change and loss of green spaces.

The proposed protest is intended to demonstrate strong public opposition and convey the concerns of citizens to the Governor, Mr Shenoy said.

MGP has appealed to Mysureans, environmental activists and NGOs working for environmental protection to participate in the protest. Citizens have also been urged to write to the Governor opposing the Bill, they said.

The protest will be held at Cheluvamba Park on August 30 from 8 a.m. to 9 a.m. For details, contact S.K. Dinesh at 98451 10202.