Karnataka govt to shut GT Mall for 7 days after farmer denied entry due to wearing dhoti

The Karnataka government announced on Thursday that GT World Mall in Bengaluru will be closed for seven days for insulting farmer wearing dhoti. This decision follows an incident where a farmer was denied entry due to his attire. Minister for Urban Development and Town Planning Bhyrathi Suresh informed the Assembly about the closure. "I asked our ex BBMP commissioner, as per the government laws, the GT Mall can be shut for seven days. We will take action for denying entry to the farmer into the mall," said Minister Suresh.

GT World Mall controversy: Opposition Demanded Action Against Mall

The issue was brought up by the BJP, who demanded strict action against the mall. Leader of the Opposition R. Ashoka emphasized the need for immediate action. "The government should initiate an action without fail," Ashoka stated.

Response from Social Welfare Minister

Minister for Social Welfare H.C. Mahadevappa supported the decision, stressing the importance of dignity and self-respect. “The dignity and self-respect of a person is of paramount importance. It can’t be compared to anything,” he said. However, Ashoka urged for quicker action without waiting for a report.

GT World Mall controversy: Calls for Immediate Action

Congress MLA Laxman Savadi also called for immediate measures. "It is time to show concern for farmers. There is no need to wait for a report or to form a committee. As per the rule, disconnect the electric connection to the mall for seven days," he demanded.

Farmer Denied Entry into GT World Mall for Waring Dhoti

The incident occurred on Tuesday evening when farmer Fakirappa from Haveri district, along with his family, was denied entry to GT World Mall due to his dhoti attire. The incident went viral on social media, leading to widespread outrage. The mall management and the security guard later issued apologies.

Fakirappa and his family had tickets for a Kannada movie but were stopped at the entrance despite having valid tickets. The security guards insisted that those clad in dhoti were not allowed in the mall.

This decision by the Karnataka government aims to address the public outcry and reinforce the message that discrimination based on attire will not be tolerated.