Bengaluru, March 4: R. Ashok, the Leader of the Opposition in the Karnataka Assembly, has raised serious allegations against the Karnataka government. He claims that the government is attempting to seize land designated for the Karnataka Silk Industries Corporation (KSIC) in T. Narasipura. This move, according to Ashok, jeopardizes the future of the renowned Mysore Silk brand.
In a statement, Ashok accused the state government of ignoring objections raised in an internal technical report. He stated that the government aims to occupy five acres of land, originally earmarked for the expansion of the KSIC unit, to construct a taluk stadium.
Ashok pointed out that the Managing Director of KSIC had submitted a detailed report indicating that the five acres are crucial for future expansion plans. This includes the establishment of an Effluent Treatment Plant (ETP) and an increase in production capacity. He emphasized that the report was based on operational data and infrastructure requirements.
Questioning the rationale behind the proposed land acquisition, Ashok alleged that the government is disregarding expert advice. He raised concerns about why a profitable and in-demand public sector company is being weakened and who stands to benefit from this decision.
He also expressed worries about the impact on the operations of the T. Narasipura unit. The facility requires approximately five lakh liters of water daily for silk reeling activities. Officials have warned that the proposed construction could obstruct essential pipeline infrastructure, affecting production.
Ashok highlighted that hundreds of workers and thousands of silk farmers depend on this unit for their livelihoods. He further noted that factory regulations mandate that at least 30% of industrial land must be maintained as green zones. He claimed that any reduction in land area could lead to non-compliance with regulatory norms and pose risks of operational shutdowns.
Describing Mysore Silk as a GI-tagged heritage brand established during the reign of the Mysore Wodeyars, Ashok stressed its global recognition for quality and authenticity. He urged the government to focus on strengthening and modernizing this institution rather than undermining it.
He called on the state government to withdraw the proposed measures and secure the future of KSIC and Mysore Silk. Ashok has also brought this matter to the attention of the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO), Union Textile Minister Giriraj Singh, and Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal.
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