Tipu Sultan Built Irrigation Barrage Before KRS Came Up: KPCC’s M. Lakshmana

Rapid Summary

• KPCC spokesperson M. Lakshmana supported Minister H.C. Mahadevappa’s remarks that Mysuru ruler Tipu Sultan laid the foundation for irrigation at the site of Krishnaraja Sagar (KRS).
• Tipu Sultan constructed a barrage, called “Mohyi,” in 1794 to irrigate agricultural fields in K.R.Nagar and Srirangapatna before Nalwadi Krishnaraja Wadiyar later built the actual reservoir at the same location.
• The stone inscription acknowledging Tipu’s contribution remains at the entrance of KRS, as decided by Nalwadi himself during its construction.
• Lakshmana criticized accusations by Mysuru MP Yaduveer Krishnadatta Chamaraja Wadiyar and clarified that Congress did not claim Tipu built KRS but only referenced historical facts related to his earlier work on irrigation at the site.
• Allegations were made against BJP leaders, including ex-MP Pratap Simha, for spreading “lies” about historical narratives.

Indian Opinion Analysis

The statement surrounding Tipu Sultan’s contribution to irrigation near KRS has reignited debates on historical narratives tied to Karnataka’s heritage. While both sides attempt to frame their perspectives from political angles, it remains critical to separate legacy-building contributions from contemporary controversies. Acknowledging historical figures like Tipu for specific projects-such as barrages-should not overshadow future-facing dialog needed in preserving monuments or improving irrigation systems benefitting farmers today.

Key implications lie in ensuring balanced depiction of Karnataka’s multi-layered history without distortion or selective interpretation under political influences. This debate underscores an ongoing need for institutional accountability while discussing culturally significant landmarks like KRS reservoir.

Read More: The Hindu Original Article