Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar announced on Monday that the state government would be implementing guidelines for malls and other establishments following an incident where a farmer was denied entry due to his attire. The incident, which occurred on July 16 at G T World mall, led to the government ordering a seven-day closure of the mall. The farmer, reportedly wearing a traditional ‘panche’ (dhoti), was refused entry, sparking widespread condemnation in the Legislative Assembly.
Addressing the Assembly, Shivakumar emphasized the cultural significance of the ‘panche’ and stated that guidelines would ensure such incidents do not recur statewide. He highlighted that the mall, in addition to facing closure, had pending tax dues amounting to ₹two crore, for which they issued a cheque to settle. The Deputy CM reiterated the government’s stance on protecting the dignity and self-respect of individuals.
However, discussions in the Assembly also saw requests to extend guidelines to private clubs, where similar dress code restrictions reportedly exist. While some members advocated for inclusivity of clubs under the new guidelines, Law Minister H K Patil urged for the focus to remain on addressing specific incidents like the one at the mall without expanding scope unnecessarily.
Opposition leader R Ashoka supported the issuance of circulars but cautioned against their effectiveness over time, proposing that such guidelines be permanently included in licensing criteria. He stressed the need to protect those wearing traditional attire from discrimination, a sentiment echoed by other lawmakers across party lines.
In response to concerns raised about clubs imposing dress restrictions, Congress MLA Basavaraj Rayareddi suggested extending circulars to cover clubs as well, underscoring the need for uniform standards across all public spaces. The government’s decision to issue comprehensive guidelines aims to prevent cultural discrimination and uphold respect for traditional attire in Karnataka’s public venues.
