‘Local politicians also responsible for North Karnataka’s backwardness’

Blaming South Karnataka-based political leaders primarily responsible for backwardness of North and Hyderabad Karnataka areas, Balaswamy Kodli, a leader of Namma Uttara Karnataka Trust, alleged that North Karnataka's political leaders had a great contribution to the backwardness of their own region.

He was addressing a media conference at Reporters' Guild here on Thursday. "Apart from politicians of South Karnataka origin, the leaders of North Karnataka have also played an undeniable role in keeping their native region backward in all spheres. They never understood the conspiracies of South Karnataka leaders. At least now they should realise and join the ongoing agitation for North Karnataka's development," he said.

IIT

Mr. Kodli attacked chief minister Siddaramaiah for "creating confusion" over the place for establishment of Indian Institute of Technology that the Union Government had granted to Karnataka.

“Dr. D.M. Nanjundappa committee on regional imbalances has clearly recommended IIT for Raichur. The State cabinet during Jagadish Shettar tenure as chief minister, had also resolved to recommend IIT for Raichur. Yet, State Government has, with a malicious intention, written to Union Government proposing two more names, Mysuru and Dharwad, along with Raichur, " he charged.

Power

Emphasising the Raichur's contribution to the State's power sector, Mr. Kodli demanded uninterrupted power supply round the clock to the district.

"Raichur contributes around 37 percent of electricity generated by Karnataka government. Once the under-construction Yermarus Thermal Power Station, with an installed capacity of 1600 MW, is complete, Raichur's contribution would cross 50 per cent. Yet, the district is always hit hard by improper and insufficient power supply," he said.

He also demanded for proper implementation of Article 371(J) of the Constitution that gave special status to Hyderabad Karnataka region and completion of various irrigation projects in Krishna basin.

Jatha’s culmination

Dr. Razak Ustaad, another office bearer of the Trust, announced that the march, which had begun from Vijayapura on Wednesday condemning the continued injustice to North Karnataka and demanding for its all-round development, would be culminated in Raichur with a huge public meeting.

“Over 10,000 people are expected to participate in the culminating demonstration. The State government must choose between development of North Karnataka or statehood for it,” he said.

Mehaboob Pasha Moolimani, district president of Karnataka State Government Employees' Association, extended his Association's support to the cause of Jatha.