Karnataka Chief Minister D. K. Shivakumar said on October 1 that permission had not been granted for a proposed Urdu festival on the grand steps of Vidhana Soudha. The Times of India reported his explanation that the location was not available for non-government programmes.
Minister U. T. Khader said the plan was open to discussion and changes. IANS reported that the suggested November 9 event would showcase Urdu literature, books, food and arts to different communities. The date was a proposal for a future celebration, not an event that had already taken place.
BJP leaders objected to the venue and argued that Kannada should receive prominence there. Khader defended the cultural purpose while saying he would consult others rather than insist on the proposal. The available reports establish a dispute over permission and venue; they do not establish a statewide ban on Urdu or a final decision cancelling every form of the festival.