Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (YA)

Udupi, Jun 28: Members of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) [CPIM] and the Centre of Indian Trade Unions [CITU] staged a protest against the state government in front of the deputy commissioner’s office on June 28. The protest was organized in response to the rising costs of essential services, reductions in scholarships for children of construction workers, and other unmet demands.

Shashidhar, secretary of CPIM, Udupi zone, criticized the government, stating, “For selfish reasons and to cover up their own corruption, the government is playing with the lives of workers.” He highlighted the reduction in scholarships for children of construction workers by 70%, attributing it to the government's claims of financial constraints. He also pointed out that the increase in petrol and diesel prices, along with GST issues at the central level, are severely impacting workers.

Shashidhar further addressed the closure of the Government Agriculture College in Brahmavar, which he said has adversely affected students from poor farming families. He also raised concerns about malpractices in government services such as the Seva Sindhu software, calling for immediate corrections to these technical errors.

Shekhar B Bangera, president of CPI, Udupi zone, addressed the gathering, noting that this protest is part of a statewide campaign running from June 28 to July 3. He commended the participants and emphasized the importance of the protest in fighting for workers' rights and welfare.

The protesters' demands were formally submitted to Dr Vidyakumari, the deputy commissioner of Udupi. The demonstration saw participation from members of CPIM, CITU, the District Construction Workers Association, and other concerned groups.