Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar.
Credit: DH Photo
Bengaluru: Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar on Sunday said the government would respond in accordance with the law to the High Court notice regarding the proposed 'Cauvery Aarti' near the Krishna Raja Sagara (KRS) reservoir in Mandya district.
The Karnataka High Court had issued the notice on Friday in response to a petition challenging the event, citing potential ecological and safety concerns.
"Whatever it is, we will respond as per the law. No one will obstruct prayers. Some have concerns, and the government will do what’s necessary to address them… we conduct pooja there every day," Shivakumar told reporters.
The High Court division bench has directed all respondents to submit their replies within two weeks.
The petition challenges the Water Resources Department’s plan to organise a Cauvery Aarti, modelled on the Ganga Aarti in Varanasi, for which the state has reportedly sanctioned Rs 92.30 crore.
The government plans to launch the event by Dasara and is building infrastructure to accommodate around 10,000 spectators, along with parking and other amenities.
Meanwhile, responding to a question on BJP leader and Leader of Opposition R Ashoka’s reported claim that Karnataka would see a Chief Minister change by August, Shivakumar quipped, "Has Ashoka started practising astrology? If he has, get me an appointment—I have questions for him too."