A proposal by Congress MLA Prasad Abbayya to rename Mysuru airport after Tipu Sultan, a Muslim ruler, has ignited a fiery debate in the Karnataka Assembly. The suggestion, made during a discussion about the state government’s request to the Centre to change airport names, drew sharp criticism from BJP MLAs.
Abbayya, representing Hubballi-Dharwad (East), stated, “I propose the renaming of Mysuru airport to Tipu Sultan airport,” leading to protests and objections from BJP MLAs. The heated exchange highlighted the polarizing views surrounding Tipu Sultan.
Nevertheless, the Karnataka Assembly passed a resolution recommending the union government to rename four airports after prominent personalities. The proposed names include Krantiveera Sangolli Rayanna for Hubballi Airport, Kittur Rani Chennamma for Belagavi Airport, Rashtrakavi Dr KV Puttappa (Kuvempu) for Shivamogga Airport, and Sri Jagadjyoti Basaveshwara for Vijayapura airport.
Infrastructure Development Minister MB Patil confirmed that the recommended names would be submitted to the union government for approval. The decision reflects the assembly’s effort to honour diverse historical figures through airport nomenclature.
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah had previously praised both Kittur Rani Channamma and Tipu Sultan as inspirations for self-respect, emphasizing their historical significance. However, Tipu Sultan remains a controversial figure in Karnataka, with debates over his legacy and political decisions surrounding celebrations like “Tipu Jayanti.”
The assembly’s resolution signifies an attempt to acknowledge multiple perspectives and commemorate various historical figures, contributing to a nuanced understanding of Karnataka’s rich history.