Daijiworld Media Network – Mangalore (SP)

Mangalore, Jul 19: Dakshina Kannada district in-charge minister, Krishna J Palemar, said that the stock of sand found from near Mary Hill in the city recently was not illegal as reported by some media. “The sand was legally stored, and it existed there since about a year. It belonged to the building contractor for the construction of college building. Neither the tashildar, nor the deputy commissioner had visited the spot, nor was the sand confiscated as reported,” he claimed.

Speaking to reporters, he accused some of the media of launching a campaign to defame him, with the tacit support of a few Congress leaders from Suratkal. “I have decided to slap defamation suit against the media concerned and the Congress leaders, who were behind this campaign. I have already paid a stamp duty of Rs 20 lac towards this suit. Those who are trying to tarnish my image through this libel, should either tender unconditional apology or face suit,” he said.

He clarified that the state government will not allow the setting up of the proposed toll collection centre by the National Highway Authority of India at Panambur. Regarding the alleged encroachment of government land at Chokkabettu village, he clarified that the district deputy commissioner will take suitable action to protect interests of the state.