Historic Dispute: Princess Road Renaming Sparks Controversy in Mysuru

The renaming of Mysuru's Princess Road, rich in historical significance, to honor Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, is facing strong objections from BJP MP Yaduveer Krishnadatta Chamaraja Wadiyar, RTI activist Snehamayi Krishna, and local opposition. Historical records and documents substantiate its existing name, igniting a cultural preservation debate.

The proposal to rename Mysuru's historically significant Princess Road after Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has ignited controversy. BJP MP Yaduveer Krishnadatta Chamaraja Wadiyar, representing local opposition, presented historical evidence supporting the road's traditional name on Thursday, including documents from as early as 1921 that reference Princess Road.

Contestation arose after MCC Commissioner Ashaad-ur-Rahman noted a lack of evidence in records dating back to 1999. Civic body officials initially decided to rename the road following Chamaraja Congress MLA Harish Gowda's suggestion; they then solicited public opinion through a newspaper notice issued on December 13.

In addition to casting doubt on the proposal, RTI activist Snehamayi Krishna and historian P V Nanjaraj Urs are prepared to initiate legal actions should unilateral decisions occur. This opposition champions the cultural legacy of Princess Road, highlighting its historic relevance linked to local royalty.

(With inputs from agencies.)