Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru (NJC)

Mangaluru, Nov 1: The Halumatha Mahasabha is preparing to launch a statewide agitation demanding the extension of Scheduled Tribe (ST) reservation benefits to the Halumatha community across Karnataka. The organisation has urged the government to extend the ST status, currently limited to Kodagu district, to other districts in the state to ensure equal opportunities in education and employment.

Addressing a press conference, Mahasabha state president Rudranna Gulaguli said the central government must take a final decision on the demand before the 2027 winter session of the Parliament. As part of the campaign, the organisation plans to conduct awareness meetings across the state and meet members of parliament, urging them to raise the issue in the Parliament. A massive convention is also planned in Udupi as part of the movement.

Gulaguli stated that the community would extend its political support to whichever party, irrespective of whether it is the BJP or Congress, takes steps to fulfil its demand. He said the community was ready to consolidate its votes in favour of a party that takes concrete measures to expedite the process of granting ST status to the community.
He further pointed out that the Halumatha community has the potential to play a decisive role in around 65 assembly constituencies in Karnataka. Political parties that ignore the community's demand would have to seriously consider the consequences of losing its support, he warned.

The community leaders also expressed respect and pride in chief minister Siddaramaiah for his work towards the welfare of oppressed communities. However, they felt that more efforts were needed to fulfil the expectations and demands of the Halumatha community.

State vice-president Dr Prashanth, state organising secretaries Rangappa Nadukattan and Purushotham J, state convenors Hanumanth Godi and Venkatesh Murthy, Mangaluru district president Annayya Doddamani, district secretary Nagaraj Kanannavar, Udupi district president Eerappa Ugalavat, district secretary Shivanagouda Patil, Hassan district president Beeregowda and others were present at the press conference.