Mangaluru: The Dakshina Kannada KDP (Karnataka Development Program) meeting witnessed high drama on Monday as BJP MLAs, MPs, and MLCs staged a walkout accusing the government of neglecting the coastal region. They alleged that no new projects had been initiated for the district in the last two years, and funds for urgent works had not been sanctioned.

The meeting, chaired by District In-Charge Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao at the Dakshina Kannada Zilla Panchayat, turned into a heated session with BJP members expressing dissatisfaction over the government’s “discriminatory approach” towards the coastal districts.

BJP Legislators Voice Concerns:

MLA Harish Poonja criticized the government for failing to allocate funds to repair roads damaged during heavy rains. “Roads in both rural and urban areas remain in disrepair for two years. While North Karnataka is receiving Kalayana Bhagya benefits, what wrong have the people of the coastal region done?” he questioned.

MLA Dr. Y. Bharat Shetty pointed out the lack of funds for minor projects like fixing gates for small check dams. “We don’t even have funds to construct 100 meters of road. Funds for last year’s rain damage are still pending,” he added.

MLA Vedavyas Kamath alleged that developmental works, including community hall projects, were stalled due to lack of funds. He also highlighted the diversion of Rs 72 crore required for road repairs under the Jal Siri project to other purposes.

Verbal Spat with Ivan D’Souza:

A verbal clash broke out between BJP legislators and MLC Ivan D’Souza when the latter asserted that the district had received adequate departmental funds for development.

Minister Responds, Announces Fund Allocation:

Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao criticized the BJP members for leaving the meeting without allowing officials to provide clarifications. He announced that Rs 2,000 crore had been sanctioned for rain-damaged areas and Rs 4,000 crore for PWD roads. He assured that funds would be allocated to all constituencies irrespective of party affiliation.

Walkout Drama:

While BJP MLAs Rajesh Naik and MLC Kishore Kumar accused the government of partiality and walked out, MP Brijesh Chowta also left the meeting. However, MLC S.L. Bhoje Gowda initially exited but returned to participate till the end. MLC Dr. Dhananjay Sarji stayed throughout the meeting.

Key Issues Raised:

• Bhoje Gowda: Opposed delays in renewing recognition for unaided schools.
• Dr. Dhananjay Sarji: Urged increased subsidies for dairy farmers and proper utilization of veterinary vehicles.
• Ivan D’Souza: Pressed for timely disbursement of funds for fisherfolk welfare schemes.
• Ashok Kumar Rai: Highlighted the need for better hostel facilities for students.

The meeting was attended by prominent officials, including Deputy Commissioner M.P. Mullai Muhilan, Zilla Panchayat CEO Dr. Anand, Police Commissioner Anupam Agarwal, and SP Yatish.