Pics: Dayanand Kukkaje
Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru (ANK)

Updated

Mangaluru, Feb 10: A huge fast-unto-death protest was launched here on Friday February 10 against the controversial Yettinahole project. Leaders from all sections across communites joined the protest, organised by Netravati Samrakshana Samyukta Samiti.

The police department had not given permission for the fast-unto-death, and had permitted protest only until 2 pm. However, the protestors stayed their ground even after the deadline. The police then intervened and took them, including Nalin Kumar Kateel and other leaders, into custody before releasing them later.

The protestors also raised slogans against the police for interuppting the agitation.

Earlier in the day, the hunger strike began with Muslim Central Commitee president Masood garlanding the Mahatma Gandhi statue at Town Hall here. Thereafter, MP Nalin Kumar Kateel led a protest march to DC's office, where a meet was held.

Addressing the protestors, Moodbidri Math's Sri Charukeerthi Bhattaraka Swamiji said, "Despite knowing that this project was technically wrong, the government has gone ahead to implement it. Due to the implementation of the project, Dakshina Kannada is severely impacted. I strongly appeal chief minister Siddaramaiah to revoke this project. We extend our full-fledged support and we will unite by keeping politics and religion aside and fight for the justice. Our voice should reach Delhi."

Sri Rajashekarananda Swamiji of Gurpur Vajradehi Math said, "The CM has became a mute spectator with regard to Yettinahole project. Because of lack of rain, Mangaluru and Bantwal are facing drought and are badly affected. This project will have severe impact on the people. The authorities concerned have recieved kickbacks and this should be completely stopped."

Sri Esha Vittaldas Swamiji of Kemar Math said, "It is tragic that the government has failed to listen to the cries of the people. We are seeking justice on the issue, and we will unite and protest for the sake of justice."

Odiyoor Sri Gurudevananda Swamiji said, "We are not against providing water to Kolar, but at the same time we need to look into the consequences of the project. All swamijis will extend their support in this struggle for justice. It is the duty of every citizen to support and protest against Yettinahole project. People need to be aware about the problems and join hands in this struggle."

Nalin Kumar Kateel, zilla panchayat president Meenakshi Shanthigodu, Ganesh Rao, Satyajith Suratkal, Krishna J Palemar, Yogish Bhat, Harikrishna Bantwal, Shashi Raj Kolambe, Monappa Bhandary and others were present.