Mysuru: Stating that elaborate arrangements have been made for the Ashadha Friday celebrations at Chamundi Hill, district in charge minister Yathindra Siddaramaiah on Wednesday clarified that the govt has not yet taken a final decision on organising kambala as part of the Mysuru Dasara festivities.Responding to questions on the proposal to conduct kambala during Mysuru Dasara, Yathindra said the govt had taken no final decision. He stressed that the govt had no intention of organising the traditional buffalo race in a manner that could harm the environment, noting that various sections of the public had raised concerns. He said the CM would examine all aspects, including the pros and cons, before taking a final call. He added that the proposal was aimed at promoting Karnataka’s rich cultural traditions in the Mysuru region.On speculation surrounding the impending cabinet expansion and allegations of a “suitcase culture” in the allocation of ministerial berths, Yathindra dismissed the charges as baseless. He asserted that no such practice existed in the Congress and alleged that those making the accusations belonged to parties where such a culture prevailed.The minister said the Ashadha Friday celebrations would commence on Friday, with strict measures in place to regulate the movement of devotees and vehicles. Only vehicles of dignitaries entitled to official protocol would be allowed to proceed up the hill, while vehicles carrying recommendation letters would not be permitted. He added that only Rs 2,000 special-entry tickets would be issued this year.
