Bengaluru’s Cubbon Park Secret Santa Controversy: Book Club Seeks Apology, Clarifies Event Was Non-Religious
Bengaluru’s Cubbon Park Secret Santa Controversy: Book Club Seeks Apology, Clarifies Event Was Non-Religious
Book club clarifies that the gathering was not religious, seeks to make public spaces accessible for readers.
The controversy surrounding a Secret Santa gathering at Bengaluru’s Cubbon Park took a new turn as the book club, Cubbon Reads, revealed that horticulture department officials expressed regret over how the situation was managed. The incident, which occurred during a pre-Christmas meet-up organized by the club, led to the confiscation of books and threats of hefty fines.
Cubbon Reads issued a statement on X, explaining that the delay in addressing the matter was due to consultations with lawyers to better understand the legalities of using public spaces. They shared that after a meeting with the horticulture department, officials expressed a willingness to make Cubbon Park a safer space for readers to gather in the future.
The club also countered claims made by Horticulture Deputy Director, who stated that book readings were allowed in the park but not religious activities. “Using the word ‘Santa’ in a meet-up does not make it religious,” the club clarified, emphasizing that the event was simply a book exchange and not linked to any religious practices.
The controversy began when park authorities interrupted the gathering, claiming it was a commercial activity. They confiscated books, escorted two organizers to the horticulture department office, and threatened fines of up to ₹60,000. According to the department, events involving more than 20 participants require organizers to pay a ₹30,000 fee and a ₹20,000 deposit, regardless of whether the event is commercial or not.
Cubbon Reads acknowledged the importance of legal awareness in using public spaces and reiterated their commitment to fostering a welcoming environment for readers in Bengaluru.
