Unesco meeting excludes DC, MLA & locals | Hubballi News

Hampi (Vijayanagara): A technical consultation regarding world heritage, sustainable development, and local communities took place on Wednesday at a private resort in Hosmalapanagudi, attended by Unesco officials. The omission of the deputy commissioner, local MLA, and community members generated criticism.The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) and Hampi World Heritage Area Management Authority (HWHAMA) organised the session to discuss building regulations and architectural guidelines for Hampi and its surroundings. Despite directives for local participation, the meeting proceeded without community involvement, notably excluding even the deputy commissioner, leading to considerable discontent.Former MP VS Ugrappa pointed out that no progress can be made by conducting meetings that leave out the local community. He called on the state govt to put pressure on the Centre to utilise the funds raised in Hampi for Hampi’s development.According to Virupakshi V, the president of the Welfare Development Association of Villages in the HWHAMA region, the residents are experiencing significant challenges since Hampi was recognised as a World Heritage Site. “The Unesco meeting provided an excellent opportunity to raise their concerns. However, they kept us away. When I inquired with the relevant officials, they failed to provide a satisfactory response,” he remarked.He further expressed concern about the absence of key representatives: “At least the DC and the local MLA should have been called to the meeting. They are the ones who are directly accessible to the people, but they are the ones who have been kept away from the meeting.”VS Ugrappa points out that for a heritage tourist destination to be well-maintained, it is crucial to involve the locals in the process. “Sadly, the current situation suggests that HWHAMA, which encompasses 42 sq km and 29 villages, is still under the sway of certain influential individuals,” he notes.He further stated that big hotels and resorts have been allowed to be built in the core area of Hampi. “Locals are not allowed to move a single stone. The authorities and local representatives are not paying attention to this. It seems like there is separate justice for those who are here,” he added.Attempts to reach ASI and meteorological department officials for comments were unsuccessful.