Pics: Sumanth Poojary
Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (TP)
Udupi, Aug 5: Udupi district BJP staged a protest and submitted a memorandum to Dr Vidya Kumari, deputy commissioner, demanding clarification on Parashurama bronze statue controversy, at the DC office, Manipal on August 5.
Naveen Nayak, president of Karkala Mandala, in his introductory note, briefed about the bronze statue project and said, “MLA Sunil Kumar had initiated this project for the benefit of the future generation. While constructing the statue the sculptor faced numerous obstacles due to weather conditions. The Congress party leaders obstructed the development by placing sand on the site, to hinder the project rather than to support it. The pieces of the statue are brought to the police station.”
Naveen accused the Karkala circle inspector of being backed by Congress leaders. He urged the superintendent of police for the suspension of the Karkala circle inspector. During the protest Naveen demanded that the deputy commissioner provided an explanation about whether the statue removal was authorized or if it had been stolen by Congress.
Kishore Kumar Kundapura, president, Udupi district BJP, accused the Congress of obstructing development and said, “Congress cannot tolerate development. After the Valmiki scam, Congress suspended the Nirmithi Kendra authorities. There are close ties between the Congress party and the police department. Therefore they better appoint Uday Kumar Muniyal to a police position. BJP is committed to development of backward caste.” Kishore Kumar criticized Congress for their alleged action against development.
The protest culminated with the BJP submitting an appeal to the deputy commissioner urging for clarification and detailed investigation of the issue.
Reshma Shetty, chief secretary, welcomed the gathering. Uday Kotian proposed a vote of thanks.
Mahaveera Hegde, district vice president, Herga Dinakar Shetty, district chief secretary, BJP leaders Kiran Kumar, Prakash Shetty Padebettu, Jayaram Salian, Suresh Shetty Shivapura, Mandala general secretary, Jithendra Shetty, Kaup Mandala president, and Dinesh Amin, Naganara Mandala president, and others were present in the protest.