Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi (SP)

Udupi, Nov 17: 'Biruver Kudla' Udupi unit organized a press meet here on Wednesday November 17. Its office bearers said that an organized effort is being carried out to sully its image.

Media advisor of the organization, Tejas J Bangera, stated that Vishwa Hindu Parishad leader, Sharan Pumpwell, during his participation in protest, had mentioned the name of 'Biruver Kudla'. The organization said that Pumpwell had earlier praised the organization for its socio-centric initiatives and he had affection towards Biruver Kudla, which is an organization that has bagged Rajyotsava award for its social service initiatives.

"We too have the responsibility of maintaining the dignity and stature of our organization. Pumpwell, without properly collecting all the material information, made accusations against our organization. He has to seek an apology from the organization by tomorrow. He is not right in levelling charges against this organization just to win over the confidence of some people based on family connection. Mainly people who live in the Ballalbagh area should never indulge in such things. There are people who get drunk, indulge in ugly behaviour, and insult people who pass by in the sacred place of the Samiti that takes upon itself the responsibility of organising Gurji Deepotsav. Some people are out to spoil the image of the Samiti and also give rise to fights. Sharan should take up the initiative to stop these things first. He should find out who is getting involved with commotions in Ballalbagh area. Some young people who are not locals are coming here by claiming themselves to be a part of the committee and spoiling the mental peace of locals by organizing parties," Bangera said.

The office bearers pointed out that the police department which has been probing the recent incident of assault, has never mentioned the name of 'Biruver Kudla' anywhere.

"Some people, who are unable to tolerate our popularity and social service activities, are trying to defame us. Biruver Kudla cannot tolerate such things. The people do not blindly believe if a couple of people make allegations against us without rhyme or reason. Our social service activities will continue. We will continue to respond to the woes of poor people, weaker classes etc without reference to their castes. We have spent over three crore rupees towards hospital cost, house construction, equipment for handicapped, education, etc and we assert that our organization was in no way involved with the recent incident of assault. 'The police have already arrested the accused and taken legal measures," he said.

The leaders again demanded for a public apology from Sharan Pumpwell for his remarks. They also warned that if the apology does not come by tomorrow, a public protest would be organized in Ballalbagh.

President of Biruver Kudla Udupi unit Kishore Poojary, vice president Dinesh Amin, treasurer Rajesh Koppa and secretary Yogeesh Amin were present.