Belagavi: More than 14,000 written objections have been submitted to the Belagavi Cantonment Board (BCB) against the proposal to permanently close three roads in the Camp area and hand them over to the Army.
Source : https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/hubballi/14000-objections-filed-against-proposal-to-close-three-camp-roads/articleshow/133658884.cms
A delegation led by social activist Nitin Khot, along with representatives of the Belgaum Cantonment Residents’ Welfare Association, Belagavi Bar Association, Lodge Victoria No. 9 Charitable Organisation, Rotary Clubs and Lions Clubs, submitted memorandums and bundles of objections to BCB CEO Manchalwar Sudam Harivijay on Monday.
The objections were submitted by residents and parents of students studying in schools in the Camp area. The submissions included the names, addresses, contact numbers and signatures of those opposing the proposal.
The BCB has invited public objections and suggestions regarding the proposed transfer of Albert Ekka Road, Smart Road and Queen’s Garden Road to the Army for permanent closure, in exchange for Gymkhana Road.
Activists Oppose Road Closure Proposal
Speaking to the CEO, Nitin Khot said the Army’s proposal was the third attempt to gain control of cantonment roads. He pointed out that similar proposals were made in 2018 and 2021, with citizens obtaining relief from the Supreme Court on both occasions.
Khot argued that the proposed closures were not connected to national security and warned that they could disrupt traffic, affect businesses and create difficulties for thousands of schoolchildren and residents who depend on these roads daily. He urged the Cantonment Board to withdraw the proposal.
Former MLA Anil Benake also opposed the move, calling it an injustice to citizens. He said similar attempts had failed in court in the past and demanded that the BCB withdraw the notification.
Benake further claimed that MP Jagadish Shettar and Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Roshan had also expressed opposition to the proposal.
Concerns Over Restrictions in Camp Area
During the meeting, participants also raised concerns over restrictions on movement along Savagaon Road during military parades, the deployment of armed personnel in civilian areas and checks on residents.
Issues concerning restrictions faced by gig workers and people wearing shorts in certain areas were also raised.
Participants additionally highlighted concerns regarding the relocation of the idol of the 160-year-old Durgamata Tulkatamma Devi Temple from Army-controlled land, reportedly citing security-related restrictions.
BCB to Place Issues Before Board
Responding to the objections, BCB CEO Manchalwar Sudam Harivijay said all the issues raised during the meeting would be placed before the Board’s next general body meeting.
He assured the stakeholders that the matters would be discussed in detail and that the outcome of the meeting would be communicated to all concerned parties.
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