Bengaluru: Indiranagar basketball court redevelopment sparks debate over public access

Bengaluru: For over four decades, a modest basketball court tucked inside Indiranagar 1st Stage served as a vital playground for local youth, adults, and sports enthusiasts of all backgrounds.This court, part of a larger public ground, was more than just a place to shoot into hoops, it was a vibrant, inclusive community space where people came together to play cricket, basketball, and other games freely.Now, that very space has become the centre of a growing debate, as BBMP began construction to convert the basketball court into a full-fledged stadium after a traditional puja on May 8. While some welcome the move, others are raising serious concerns about what this transformation might mean for the future of public access.According to Detailed Project Report (DPR), BBMP plans to upgrade the existing court by resurfacing the basketball court, adding spectator stands (gallery) on four sides, constructing changing rooms, toilets, and store rooms, installing lighting for evening games, fencing the premises, creating car parking space inside the playground area, and improving drainage systems.The estimated cost of the project is Rs 6 crore, and it is expected to be completed in six to nine months. The stated aim is to provide better infrastructure for players, host tournaments, and promote sports among Bengaluru's youth.The heart of controversyHowever, residents are not convinced. Many strongly oppose turning it into a stadium-like structure that could limit free public access with entry fees, fixed timings, or requirements like special footwear. — barriers that could keep out children from low-income backgrounds. The lack of clarity in the DPR about future usage policies has only added to these concerns. Swarna Venkataraman from I Change Indiranagar said, "We're not against upgrading the ground — we want it to be maintained. But turning the only open space we have into a private club facility is unacceptable."Another key question being asked is about private coaching clubs. Currently, a private basketball club has been conducting weekend paid classes there. Residents ask how a public space can be used for commercial purposes and fear such arrangements might increase after the stadium is upgraded.The players' perspectiveOn the other hand, long-time basketball players strongly support BBMP's plan. Yeshwanth Jayanna, a player who used the court for 8 years and represented Karnataka in the sport, said, "We've wanted this upgrade for decades. When it rains, we can't play. The court is cracked and worn out. We need a roof and better flooring to train seriously."He added, "Our club has always been about encouraging public to play. We're not turning it into a private zone — we're fighting to improve it."BBMP RespondsBBMP officials have attempted to ease fears. Snehal R, zonal commissioner, BBMP east, stated, "This is not a takeover of the entire playground. Only the basketball court is being upgraded. The rest of the ground will remain open to public." On allegations about a basketball club conducting coaching by collecting money, she said an inquiry will be conducted on the issue.She added no decisions have yet been made regarding access policies, and BBMP is open to discussions about free coaching sessions and possibly adding more courts if the demand arises. She emphasized that infrastructure requires maintenance and that involving local associations in management may be necessary, but it does not mean privatisation.Key details of the project- Convert the court into a stadium with resurfacing, adding a gallery/viewing stands, changing rooms, toilets.- Car parking inside the playground - The estimated cost is Rs 6 crore- Expected to finish in 6-9 months- It is unclear whether the basketball stadium will remain open for free public use