Now, a park to ensure the growth of Kannada

Chief minister BS Yeddyurappa cheered up the audience with a surprise announcement that a theme park would be built in memory of the Second World Kannada Meet.

“To make this memory permanent, we’ve decided to build a theme park which will give a complete picture of the state, old and new,” he said.

The park showcasing the entire history of the state will be completed in two years. “To conceptualise the park, a high-level committee will be set up. The government is ready to spend generously,” he said. Turning to the border issue, he said Belgaum is part of the state. No one can raise doubts about that. Everyone should accept the Mahajan committee report which is final.

He said the government is committed to the development of Kannada language and culture.

“We will not allow anyone to override Kannada. People should understand the significance of Kannada and spread the language worldwide,” he said. The government would do all it can for the overall development of the state, he added.

Opposition leader Siddaramaiah said, “Belgaum is ours. No one can stake claim on it. Belgaum has a long history. It set the tone for freedom movement in the 1924 Congress session under the leadership of Mahatma Gandhi.”