Pics: Dayananda Kukkaje
Daijiworld Media Network – Puttur
Puttur, Oct 20: In a speech that was both a stern rebuke and a promise of progress, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Monday declared that Dakshina Kannada, once notorious for communal tensions, will now witness development in the form of a government medical college in Puttur.
Addressing a large crowd at the ‘Ashoka Janamana – 2025’ and Deepavali Vastra Vitarana programme, organised by Rai Estate and Charitable Trust under the leadership of MLA Ashok Kumar Rai, Siddaramaiah made a strong case for social harmony, inclusive governance and educational upliftment, even as he hit out at those spreading division and misinformation.
“Your district was number one when it came to fights in the name of caste and religion. Today, our government has imposed a complete curb. No more violence. No more hate. Instead, we bring you a medical college,” the chief minister announced at the event held at the Puttur Taluk Stadium.
Medical College to fulfil budget promise
Reaffirming his government’s commitment to delivering on budget promises, Siddaramaiah said a state-run medical college would be established in Puttur, as previously announced in the state budget.
He criticised those who doubted the government's financial capacity to implement its flagship five guarantee schemes, including free bus travel for women, power subsidies, and financial aid to women and unemployed youth.
“If there is no money, would we be establishing a medical college here? The opposition should stop misleading the public. We will fulfil every promise we’ve made,” he said.
The chief minister also warned that those spreading false information would face legal consequences. “We are bringing in a law. Anyone who spreads lies will have cases filed against them. Ministers Priyank Kharge and H.K. Patil are actively pursuing this,” he cautioned.
'No more innocent deaths in the name of religion'
In a hard-hitting critique of communal politics, Siddaramaiah highlighted how marginalised communities suffer the most during unrest.
“The children of those who incite hatred never participate in the violence. It’s always the poor and the voiceless who pay the price. We must never let our innocent youth die in the name of caste or religion,” he said.
He credited administrative reforms and the appointment of capable officers—including a new Commissioner and SP—for restoring peace and curbing tensions in Dakshina Kannada.
“When competent officers are in charge, change becomes visible. Our government has ensured that communal forces are reined in,” he noted.
'Religious harmony is non-negotiable'
The CM underscored the need for preserving Karnataka’s communal harmony, which he called essential for the development of both the state and its districts.
“All religions teach love, not hate. No faith instructs its followers to fight others. We must embrace unity in diversity, not let hatred and communalism pollute the social fabric,” he said.
He called upon the people of Dakshina Kannada to pay special attention to peace, especially given the region's volatile history.
Push for equality and social responsibility
Touching upon issues of social justice and equity, Siddaramaiah called for greater philanthropy from the wealthy and urged society to bridge caste and class divides.
“In our society, we have rich and poor, upper castes and lower castes. An equal society can only be built when those who have share with those who don’t. Even Basavanna taught us about Kayaka (work) and Dasoha (giving),” he reminded the audience.
He said the government is working towards building a society based on equality and constitutional values. As part of this, the Preamble of the Constitution is now being read in all schools, to raise awareness among students.
“Without understanding the Constitution, we cannot build an equal and democratic society,” he said.
Siddaramaiah commended local MLA Ashok Kumar Rai for his Deepavali clothing distribution drive, which benefitted around one lakh people this year.
“What began on a small scale has grown into a movement. This is the kind of social leadership we need,” the CM said, adding that Ashok Rai was also guiding affluent citizens to contribute more meaningfully to society.