Sahabalva Organisation Calls for Action Against Udupi DC Over Alleged Constitutional Violation at Paryaya Festival
Udupi – Sahabalva Udupi, a local organisation advocating for communal harmony, has issued a strong demand for action against the Udupi Deputy Commissioner (DC), alleging a breach of constitutional principles during the recent Paryaya festival. K. Phaniraj, the chief convener of Sahabalva Udupi, released a press statement outlining the organisation’s concerns and calling for a thorough investigation into the DC’s conduct.
The controversy stems from the Paryaya Utsava, a significant religious event held in Udupi on January 18th. According to Phaniraj, Deputy Commissioner T.K. Swaroopa was observed holding and waving the flag of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) while welcoming the ceremonial Pura Pravesha procession. The observation was reportedly documented in media reports and accompanying photographs.
Phaniraj emphasized that all government officials, including the District Commissioner, are bound by the Constitution to act impartially and uphold its values in the execution of their public duties. He asserted that any deviation from these constitutional norms warrants appropriate legal repercussions.
The Deputy Commissioner reportedly defended her actions by stating that his participation in the event was in his official capacity, representing the district administration as part of a civic reception, and that there was no political motivation behind his actions. However, Phaniraj countered that even in an official capacity, the Deputy Commissioner should have exercised greater discretion and ensured strict adherence to constitutional principles.
Phaniraj further contended that if local leaders had pressured the DC to display the flag of what he described as an unconstitutional and divisive organisation, the Deputy Commissioner should have stood firm to preserve the integrity of his office and declined the request. Instead, the DC not only allegedly participated in the act but also sought to justify her behavior by invoking her official position. Phaniraj raised concerns about the potential message this sends to elements that threaten peace within the district and the apprehension it may instill in communities already vulnerable to repeated attacks.
Sahabalva Udupi has strongly condemned the incident, deeming the conduct of an official in a position of responsibility as unacceptable. The organisation is urging the Karnataka government to treat the matter with the utmost seriousness and initiate stringent legal action against the Deputy Commissioner for what they consider a violation of constitutional norms. The organisation believes a thorough investigation is necessary to determine the extent of the alleged violation and to ensure that such incidents are not repeated in the future.
