Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (MS)

Udupi, Jan 23: Minister for Kannada, Culture, and Backward Communities, Shivaraj Tangadagi, visited the city on January 23 and addressed several subjects during his visit.

Regarding his absence at the Ayodhya Rama Mandir inauguration, Tangadagi clarified, "We have not distanced ourselves from the inauguration of the Rama Mandir at Ayodhya. We are also devotees of Ram and Anjaneya. The BJP is politicizing the issue, focusing on religion rather than development and the welfare of financially poor people. When elections approach, the BJP shifts its focus to religion, mosques, and Pakistan, neglecting real issues. It will face the same fate it did in the Karnataka legislative assembly elections."

Addressing the delay in recruiting directors for boards and corporations, Shivaraj stated, "Decisions will be made by the party president, chief minister, and high command, ensuring equal distribution of power district-wise. The Congress follows democratic principles, and recruitments will be completed soon."

Responding to queries about classical recognition for the Kannada language grant, Shivaraj said, "I will question all the BJP MPs of Karnataka. Classical status will be granted for obtaining more funds, a benefit other states have already secured. However, our state BJP MPs have not advocated for this with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. I will visit Delhi at the end of this month to address this issue."

Speaking about the second state Yakshagana convention, he mentioned, "Discussions have already taken place regarding the nomination of academy president and members. The president will be nominated soon, and responsibilities will be allocated. All academies are functioning as intended, and separate presidents will be nominated for each academy soon."

Regarding the shortage of funds for the Kannada and culture department and alleged district-wise discrimination, the minister said, "We do not distribute grants based on party affiliation; that is a rule followed only by the BJP. We treat everyone equally, and I will investigate claims of discrimination. We have requested more funds this year for the Kannada and culture department, appealing for Rs 40-50 crore from the chief minister. Funds are allocated based on proposals from each district, and we do not face a shortage of funds despite false propaganda from the BJP."