Karnataka CM Bans Smoking on Chamundi Hills, Plans Major Overhaul

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has announced a ban on smoking, drinking, and gutka consumption on Chamundi Hills, along with plans to make the area plastic-free. Additional funds will be used for development, including the renovation of five temples. There are no plans for a dress code, and a task force will be set up for security.

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Tuesday announced that smoking, drinking alcohol, and consuming 'gutka' and 'paan' will be completely banned on Chamundi Hills, which will also be made plastic-free.

In a bid to rejuvenate the spiritual appeal of Chamundi Hills, Siddaramaiah has ordered officials to draft a comprehensive five-year development plan. Speaking after the first meeting of the Chamundeshwari Kshetra Development Authority, he emphasized that photography inside the temple will be prohibited and mobile phones should be switched off.

The Chief Minister also revealed that additional funds amounting to Rs 11 crore will be released to implement the union government's Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual Augmentation Drive (PRASAD) scheme. "Our goal is to make Chamundi Hills more attractive and provide all necessary facilities and amenities," he stated, adding that security measures including CCTV surveillance and adequate lighting will be put in place.

(With inputs from agencies.)