Minister moots devpt of area around Valmiki statue at LH

Bengaluru: Scheduled Tribes (ST) Welfare Minister T Raghumurthy said on Saturday that a two-acre site in front of the Legislators’ Home (LH), around Maharshi Valmiki statue known as Tapovana, will be developed.The project will follow the model of Hampi’s Hajara Rama Temple, with stone carvings depicting Valmiki and themes from the Ramayana. Landscaping, decorative lighting & a sound system will be part of the project.Speaking after a meeting with senior officials from his department, public works, police and information & public relations, Raghumurthy said he had sought a detailed project report (DPR).Raghumurthy, along with senior officials, later inspected the site for over an hour and discussed the proposed features and facilities.Public access?Raghumurthy said the government was examining the possibility of opening the Valmiki statue premises to the general public.Second Valmiki statue at junction in Ballari: Old rivalry comes full circlePolice officials said given the security considerations, it would require permission from the Assembly and Council secretariats.Raghumurthy said the matter would be discussed with the authorities concerned and a decision taken shortly.

Source: Deccan Herald