Pics: Spoorthi Ullal

Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru (MS)

Mangaluru, Sep 5: KPCC chief secretary Padmaraj R criticized MLA Vedavyas Kamath for his narrow-mindedness, stating that neither the district administration nor the state government has imposed any restrictions on the celebration of Ganesha Chaturthi.

Speaking at a press conference at the Dakshina Kannada district Congress office, Padmaraj said, “Congress has never obstructed the celebration of any festival in the country. On the contrary, it has always encouraged devotion and festivities. Therefore, there is no need for unnecessary panic regarding the Ganesha Chaturthi celebrations."

He added, “In Dakshina Kannada, a district known for its unique culture, people of all religions celebrate festivals unitedly and in a disciplined manner. Programme organizers start preparations well in advance. Even during the previous government's tenure, it was routine for organizers to seek permission for public events. However, when it comes to tableaus, differences may arise. What is wrong with seeking explanations for those that tarnish our culture? We in Congress are also Hindus, and festivals in this district are celebrated more devoutly than in grandeur."

Padmaraj also addressed MLA Kamath’s concerns about traffic congestion, stating that Kamath falsely claimed the changes were made based on verbal orders from the district in-charge minister. He further challenged Kamath to clarify whether he had consulted experts or discussed the issue with the district in-charge minister, Gundu Rao.

On the topic of property tax, Padmaraj accused Kamath of misleading the public, noting that water tariffs had also been increased during the BJP’s tenure. “During the Congress regime, 25,000 litres of water cost just Rs 65. Under the BJP, the charge rose to Rs 140 for only 8,000 litres. Let Kamath explain why petrol, diesel, and cooking gas prices were not reduced despite a significant drop in crude oil prices globally.”

Congress district president Harish Kumar echoed these sentiments, calling on Kamath to provide evidence of difficulties faced by the public during last year’s or this year’s Ganesha Chaturthi celebrations.

Regarding issues at Mangaluru University, Padmaraj acknowledged discussions with the vice chancellor and pointed out that the challenges resulted from poor decisions made over the past five years. He added that government officials were working with the minister of higher education to revive the university and investigate past scams.

Senior MCC member Shashidhar Hegde also addressed the issue of property tax, criticizing the MCC administration for failing to reduce the self-declared property tax within the last 40 days.