Work on Jesus statue atop Kapala Betta comes to a halt

Ramanagara: The work on the installation of a Jesus statue atop the Kapala Betta in Kanakapura taluk has been temporarily suspended owing to recent developments, informed office-bearers of Kapala Betta Development Trust

On Monday, the government posted Yelandur tahsildar Varsha to Kanakapura while transferring the present tahsildar Anandayya without a posting. While Varsha is yet to assume charge as the tahsildar, Anandaiah did not attend office on December 31. It is alleged that Anandaiah was transferred owing to his proximity with Congress leader D K Shivakumar.

Anandaiah and Assistant Commissioner Dakshayani visited the hill last week for a spot inspection, as per state government instructions, and was expected to submit a report in a few days. However, he has been transferred before submission of the said report.

Meanwhile, the work on the statue has come to a halt after spot inspection by the officials. Police personnel had been deployed at the spot.

On Tuesday, Rishikumara Swami of Kali Mutt visited the hill and said that it was not right to construct a Jesus statue here as Kapala implies Shiva and thus the place should be a hill of Shiva. Further, he said that they will stage a protest if the work on Jesus statue is commenced.

Environmentalists also raised objections on alloting gomala (grazing land) to the trust.