Activists set October 12 deadline to cancel Dasara Kambala
Various organizations in Karnataka have set an October 12 deadline for the state government to cancel a proposed buffalo race (kambala) during the Mysuru Dasara festival. Protesters argue that the event is insensitive given the severe drought conditions and water scarcity in the region.
Why it matters
The conflict illustrates the tension between cultural preservation and environmental/resource management during climate-induced crises.
Opposing the proposed kambala during Mysuru Dasara amid the prevailing drought, various organisations on Tuesday set October 12 as the deadline for the State government to withdraw its decision, warning of an intensified agitation if the event is not cancelled.
The organisations, which have been opposing the event since it was proposed, staged a protest at the kambala venue and resolved to submit a memorandum to Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar through the Deputy Commissioner, seeking cancellation of the event.
The protesters argued that 217 taluks in the State had been declared drought-hit and several taluks in Mysuru, Mandya, Chamarajanagar and Hassan districts were facing drought. They said the Central drought assessment team had also highlighted a rainfall deficit of around 60% in the region.
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