Bhatkal: The controversy surrounding the Murinakatte structure in Bhatkal amid the widening of National Highway 66 has been resolved, with authorities deciding to reconstruct it at its original location within the road divider area, Member of Parliament (MP) Vishweshwar Hegde Kageri said on Tuesday.
Addressing a press conference in Bhatkal, Kageri said the decision was reached after a series of meetings involving the district administration, taluk administration, police department, National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) officials and representatives of various Hindu organisations.
The structure had been relocated and rebuilt at a nearby site on May 24 as part of the highway expansion project. However, it was allegedly demolished by some individuals later the same day, triggering widespread public and political debate.
Kageri said the decision to rebuild the structure at its original location was taken after considering various viewpoints, while balancing religious sentiments and traffic safety concerns.
According to him, the proposed structure will cover about 120 square feet and measure around seven feet in length. Necessary safety measures, lighting and other basic infrastructure facilities will also be provided.
He said officials have been instructed to prepare the technical and legal framework for the project, and a final blueprint is expected to be ready within the next few days.
Responding to questions regarding a protest call given by Hindu organisations for June 5, Kageri said that in a democracy everyone has the right to express their views and organise peaceful protests. He added that issues concerning society should be addressed through constructive public participation.
Former MLA Sunil Naik welcomed the decision to rebuild the structure but called for a comprehensive investigation into the incidents of assault and violence reported during the controversy. He urged authorities to take action against those responsible while ensuring that innocent persons are not harassed.
BJP leader Govind Naik said steps should be taken to prevent similar incidents in the future and to maintain peace, communal harmony and mutual trust in society.
Earlier in the day, Kageri, Sunil Naik and other BJP leaders visited the site along with NHAI officials and reviewed the proposed reconstruction plan.