Daijiworld Media Network – Mangalore (SP)
Mangalore, May 26: President of Mangalore Taluk Agriculture Produce Market Committee (APMC), K Krishnaraj Hegde, announced that he would consider the possibility of withdrawing the criminal cases filed by APMC against those who had violated the notified area notification relating to marketting of agricultural produce. “This will be done in the interests of the farmers and merchants alike, and without compromising on the standing of APMC and without giving scope for contempt of court proceedings,” he explained.
He was speaking at a programme of felicitation and interaction organized by Kanara Chamber of Commerce and Industry in the city on Wednesday May 25.
He recalled that on July 24, 2007, the state government had declared Bykampady APNMC Yard as notified area, duly denotifying Bunder area. As per rules, 113 kinds of agricultural produce were to be traded only in the notified area. As several merchants violated the conditions set out in this notification, cases were filed. After the BJP government took over control, Bunder area was declared as a sub-yard. Against this declaration, a case is pending in the High Court. We have to take all these into considerations before taking a decision, he added.
Hegde drew the attention of participants to the fact that the APMC Yard was built at Bykampady by acquiring 88 acres of land from farmers. “We want this facility to be put to use properly. Our aim is not to harass the merchants. We have, as per the High Court suggestion, raised Rs 30 crore loan for providing basic amenities at the yard. Still, most part of this property, worth around 1,000 crore in the market, is in a neglected state because of non-use,” he lamented.
He clarified that once sites are allotted in Bykampady Yard, the concerned have to construct buildings as per rules within a year. “90 persons have constructed buildings as per rules. The assets of those who have violated conditions have been confiscated, and they will not be returned to them,” he asserted.
President of Kanara Chamber of Commerce and Industry, G G Mohandas Prabhu, welcomed. Vice president, Lata R Kini, delivered introductory address. Honorary secretary, Muhammed Amin, proposed the vote of thanks.