Mangalore: ‘Owning Homes’, a Distant Dream of the Poor - DYFI Protesters
Pics: Spoorthi Ullal
Daijiworld Media Network – Mangalore (PS/VA)
Mangalore, Oct 24: Despite constantly pleading the concerned authorities to provide shelter (houses) for the homeless, their voices were unheard. Even though six long months have passed no arrangements of any kind were made for the benefit of the poor, bringing forth the ‘Inequality’ shown against the lesser-privileged.
Objecting this negligent attitude of the concerned people, a mammoth protest was organized by DYFI members in front of the MCC building here on Monday October 24.
Demanding an own home to lead a dignified life is a right as per the provisions of Indian constitution. But for poor people in the district, it still remains a dream said DYFI state vice-president Muneer Katipalla.
“Many protests, demonstrations, rallies carried out were unheard by the concerned authorities. Fertile lands belonging to farmers are going to the hands of industrialists and private companies. Government lands are not given to poor people, instead rich people are investing black money in the land. Though the district is wearing the ‘developmental look’ it is not fair to the underprivileged people, he opined.
Due to the uncommon hike in house rents, poor people are not able to afford to rental house too. At the proposed Krishi Sammelan in December, more lands will be sold out to foreign investors.
Though the state Government had promised of 4,000 houses to each legislative constituency, it was not realised. Though projects like ‘Ashraya’, Rajiv Gandhi, Vajapayee Housing projects, Indira Awas were announced, poor are made to hear from the authorities that there is no land, he alleged.
Poor people in impressive numbers took out a rally from Besant College circle to MCC. Leaders of labour unions and farmer unions also took part in the protest. Later they submitted a memorandum to commissioner of Mangalore City Corporation. Police provided tight vigil and helped for the smooth flow of traffic.
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