People walking in Cubbon Park.
Credit: DH Photo
Bengaluru: The Cubbon Park Walkers Association on Tuesday appealed to Karnataka Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot, seeking his intervention to halt the proposed ticketed art gallery within the park premises.
The association turned to the state's constitutional head after the Horticulture Department failed to respond to their requests.
In their memorandum, association president S Umesh stated that Cubbon Park is one of Bengaluru's last remaining lung spaces.
"It is not just an urban green space, but a vital sanctuary for rich biodiversity and a historic landmark. The beloved park now stands threatened by the proposal for a five-acre park to be developed by a private entity,” the memorandum said.
The association opposes the project, citing numerous risks that threaten the core essence of Cubbon Park.
Bangalore Central MP PC Mohan also criticised the proposal, stating that the five-acre ticketed art park in Cubbon Park, under the guise of public welfare, is an attempt by influential individuals to commercialise the area around the Venkatappa Art Gallery (VAG) for profit.
“The gallery is a public cultural space that has nurtured Karnataka’s art community for decades. For years, artists and citizens have fought to protect VAG from being handed over to private entities. But now, a well-connected group is once again trying to take control. VAG does not need privatization,” he posted on X.