Daijiworld Media Network – Kundapur (MS)

Kundapur, Dec 14: "Rock and sand mining, which had been halted in the district, will begin soon. I met Minister Mallikarjun and appealed for the same. The decision has already been made in the cabinet meeting, and it now awaits the CM's approval," said former MLA K. Gopal Poojary.

Speaking to reporters at the IB in the city, Gopal added, "I have no information regarding any illegal deals between the BJP and Congress concerning sand extraction. The Deputy Commissioner (DC) has been given more authority. The Law Minister and Mallikarjun have already given their approval. Once the CM approves, work will resume."

Responding to the Gangolli Panchayat election results, Gopal expressed his satisfaction, stating, "Congress has regained power in the Gangolli Panchayat after 30 years, defeating the BJP. I am extremely happy. A new board will be formed, and all issues in Gangolli will be addressed."

He continued, "The mature voters of Gangolli rejected the BJP for neglecting local issues. Congress will not ignore the voters of Gangolli. We will resolve all issues honestly. We aim to replicate this success in all Panchayats of Kundapura taluk, following the Gangolli model. I will give more opportunities to the youth, and we will strengthen Congress everywhere."

On the Kollur Temple management committee, Gopal said, "I am the senior-most leader in the party, having served as an MLA four times. I am not intimidated by anyone. DKS assured me that my recommendation for the Kollur management committee would be considered if the party assumes power. He has kept his word, and I have kept mine. The committee has been formed but is currently withheld. The DC has also received a letter regarding this."

In response to accusations that Gopal was responsible for Sukumara Shetty not being appointed to the Kollur Temple committee, Gopal clarified, "DKS personally spoke with Sukumara Shetty about the Kollur Temple issue. He informed him that there was no need to join Congress for the Kollur Temple matter. Sukumara Shetty agreed. However, under pressure from some people, he may have later demanded the president’s post for the Kollur Temple committee. He is a senior leader and has the right to make such a request, but ultimately, the government’s decision will be final."