Giant DK Shivakumar Cut-Outs Near Karnataka High Court Removed After Judges Take Note

Just a day before DK Shivakumar takes oath as the next Chief Minister on June 3, authorities removed several giant cut-outs and congratulatory banners erected near the Karnataka High Court in Bengaluru after judges took note of the structures.

The oversized displays had come up around the Vidhana Soudha and the High Court precincts as supporters celebrated Shivakumar’s anticipated elevation to the state’s top post. The Congress leader is set to succeed Chief Minister Siddaramaiah following weeks of intense political discussions within the ruling party over a leadership transition.

According to officials, some of the cut-outs installed opposite Vidhana Soudha were so large that they partially obstructed the view of the High Court building. The

structures, featuring congratulatory messages and images of Shivakumar, quickly drew the attention of judges inside the court premises.

Following directions from the judiciary, High Court authorities instructed the police to take immediate action. Police personnel subsequently arrived at the site and supervised the removal of flex boards, banners, cut-outs and the wooden frameworks that had been erected to support them.

The action was taken in line with earlier court orders that prohibit the installation of unauthorised flex boards and hoardings in public spaces. The Karnataka High Court has repeatedly expressed concern over the unchecked proliferation of such displays, citing issues related to public safety, urban aesthetics and obstruction of public infrastructure.

Despite these restrictions, Bengaluru has witnessed a surge of celebratory banners and political displays in recent days as Congress workers and supporters prepare for Shivakumar’s swearing-in ceremony. Congratulatory hoardings have appeared across several parts of the city, reflecting the enthusiasm among party cadres over the leadership change.

The removal of the cut-outs near the High Court highlights the continuing challenge faced by authorities in enforcing regulations on political banners and public displays, particularly during major political events.

Shivakumar’s expected swearing-in marks a significant moment in Karnataka politics. Widely regarded as one of the Congress party’s most influential leaders in the state, he played a crucial role in the party’s 2023 Assembly election victory and has since served as Deputy Chief Minister and Karnataka Congress president.

As Bengaluru gears up for the oath-taking ceremony, the incident serves as a reminder that political celebrations, however significant, remain subject to court-mandated rules governing public spaces and civic order.