Pics: Abhijith N Kolpe

Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru (ANK)

Mangaluru Sep 19: MLC Ivan D Souza strongly opposed the merging of Vijaya Bank, Dena Bank and Bank of Baroda.

Addressing media here on Wednesday, September 19, MLC Ivan D’Souza said, "Vijaya Bank was started in the year 1931 at Bunts Hostel for the welfare of farmers and has spread all over the country. The government has now kept the proposal of merging Vijaya Bank, Denna Bank and Bank of Baroda. I strongly oppose the merger of Vijaya Bank which took birth in Mangaluru.

“People have opposed the move of the government. Vijaya Bank is one bank which gained profit in the year 2017-18. Whoever sent this proposal of merging three banks are the ones who help the corporate sector. The corporate sector has no concern for rural areas, farmers and common man. Vijaya Bank has the highest branches in rural areas. It has total of 2,129 branches across the country, 79 branches in Dakshina Kannada, 63 branches in Udupi and 583 branches in the state.

“I will raise this issue in the session and will take a delegation to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on this regard. If they fail to withdraw Vijaya Bank out of this merger, I will observe fasting till justice is provided,” he said.