Shivakumar defends land allotment for Jesus statue, says all procedures lawful

Bengaluru, Dec 2025 : Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar on Saturday asserted that the land allotment for installing the country’s tallest Jesus statue in his Kanakapura constituency had been done through lawful procedures, and that he continues to stand by the project despite criticism and ongoing legal disputes.

Speaking at the United Christmas celebration organised by the Baldwin Methodist Education Society, Shivakumar said he remains committed to supporting educational and religious initiatives. “I am committed to provide land for the Baldwin institution in North Bengaluru. In my Kanakapura Constituency, I have ensured that 10 acres of land is allotted from the government to build a 100-foot Jesus statue. I paid money (prescribed by the government) for it,” he said.

Shivakumar, who has faced criticism from political opponents and Hindu organisations over the project, stressed that the matter is before the court and that all actions taken were within legal boundaries. “People have targeted me. But everything has been done lawfully now,” he remarked.

He added that his work reflects his belief in religious harmony and human values. “I have faith in all religions. I believe in humanity. As per the request of the Bishop, I want to assure that I fulfil his demands,” he said.

The project, introduced by Shivakumar along with the Harobele Kapalabetta Development Trust, was intended to create one of the country’s tallest monolithic Jesus statues atop Kapalabetta hill in Harobele village. However, construction of the proposed 114-foot statue is currently halted following a Karnataka High Court order and continuing legal challenges over land allocation. The BJP and several Hindutva groups have held strong protests opposing the initiative.

Arriving two hours late to the event, Shivakumar stated that he had been occupied with major protests at Freedom Park earlier in the day. Demonstrations against issues related to the National Herald case and MGNREGA were held under his leadership, contributing to the delay, he explained.