Mysuru: Gandhi Bhavan, built near deputy commissioner’s office complex in Siddhartha Nagar at a cost of Rs 3 crore, remains locked and unused despite being inaugurated last year by then chief minister Siddaramaiah.Siddaramaiah had announced in the 2016-17 budget during his first tenure as chief minister that Gandhi Bhavans would be established in every district to promote Mahatma Gandhi’s philosophy and ideology.The facility was intended to host meetings, seminars and conferences and introduce younger generations to Gandhian principles. Built by information and public relations department on a 100×100 sqft area of a one-acre plot on Bannur Road, it has remained locked since its inauguration. Weeds and bushes have grown on the premises.The building has a library, conference hall, training centre, photo gallery, 100-seater meeting hall, exhibition space, office, toilets and a ramp for people with disabilities. A statue of Mahatma Gandhi stands on the front lawn.It is Mysuru’s second Gandhi Bhavan. University of Mysore’s department of Gandhian studies also runs one at Manasagangothri.Deputy director of information and public relations Vinodchandra said the department lacked staff and resources to maintain the facility. District administration would take over its maintenance following directions from higher authorities.
