Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi

Udupi, Nov 12: Karkala MLA and former minister Sunil Kumar accused the Congress of sabotaging the region's tourism industry, alleging delays in the release of sanctioned funds. Addressing accusations made by Congress leader Udaykumar Shetty, Kumar stated, "Despite the government approving Rs 4.50 crore for the theme park, the funds have not been released. Frustrated by defeat, Congress leaders are spreading false accusations."

Speaking at a press conference in Udupi, Sunil Kumar clarified, "The sculptor had obtained permission to modify the design and move the statue. Investigations before the handover of government projects have now become a trend in Udupi. The Nirmithi Kendra did not complete the theme park work, and I am ready for any investigation, including quality checks. I urge the government to reopen the tourist spot soon and take action against those spreading falsehoods. Initial claims that the idol was made of fiber have been proven false by the High Court."

Kumar further criticized the district police, questioning, "Which department reported substandard quality? An FIR was filed on a private complaint by a Congress leader without a formal report. If private complaints can lead to FIRs, then thousands could be registered for Udaykumar Shetty’s projects. The defeated candidate approached the Mahjars, and these issues require answers. I demand that the government release the pending funds. No action has been taken against those obstructing the theme park's entry. The gram panchayat president's complaint has not even been registered."

He added, "The redesign was approved by the DC. If the sculptor removed the statue with permission, how can it be called theft? The tehsildar had requested police security for the removal. The same authorities who permitted the statue’s removal are now investigating it."

Targeting Udaykumar Shetty, Kumar said, "Did ‘Fiber Udaykumar’ show any concern for the artist? You have your own government; conduct a thorough investigation. The project has been stalled for a year, causing losses to both tourism and the government. The police have prepared questions in the Congress office. The artist was detained for seven days — what has been achieved in a year of investigation? The people of Karkala have made their decision on who should go to Vidhana Soudha and who should stay home. The Congress's actions have disrupted tourism and economic growth in Karkala."

Kumar called Shetty an "opportunist contractor" and accused him of hindering development. "If a private complaint were filed regarding Udaykumar’s projects, hundreds of FIRs could be lodged. Those investigating must also be held accountable for their false claims," he said.

He added, “Public activities can be carried out in Gomala land. Many projects were inaugurated before completion. This project has funding from multiple departments. Those making baseless accusations don’t understand what a theme park entails. The idol’s spare parts were inspected by police — suspend the officer involved. Why should I apologize? Let the accusers do so. No additional funds were requested for the redesign. I will expose Udaykumar’s questionable projects.”

Prominent attendees at the press meet included Sumit Shetty Bailur, former zilla panchayat member; Malini J Shetty, former taluk panchayat president; Sunil Hegde, president of Yarlapadi Gram Panchayat; Sujata Poojary, president of Bailur Gram Panchayat; Satchidananda Prabhu, president of Neere Gram Panchayat; Satchidananda Shetty, president of the Parasurama Theme Park Horata Committee; Santhosh, vice president of Bailur Gram Panchayat; Gururaj Mada of Yuva Morcha Udupi District; and Rakesh Shetty, president of Kukkundur Karkala Mandal Yuva Morcha.