Media Release

Udupi, Jul 21: Following intense public outrage, District In-charge Minister Lakshmi Hebbalkar reluctantly visited Udupi to inspect the damage caused by natural disasters. However, local MLA Yashpal Suvarna expressed dissatisfaction, comparing the visit to a casual outing at the beach with snacks.

Despite the fact that all five constituencies in Udupi district are represented by BJP MLAs, the minister conducted the inspection without involving the local legislators, treating it as a farcical exercise with officials.

MLAs from Udupi, Kaup, Kundapur, Byndoor, and Karkala constituencies, including Sunil Kumar, Suresh Shetty Gurme, Kiran Kumar Kodgi, and Gururaj Gantihole, have already expressed their frustration over the minister’s negligence towards the district. They cited widespread damage from rain, sea erosion, crop loss, and landslides as areas of concern.

The district in-charge minister has repeatedly announced funds amounting to 5 crore for sea erosion control and an additional 10 crore for the Paryaya Mahotsava, which remain unallocated.

In the last 14 months, the minister has conducted only one district progress review meeting. Yashpal Suvarna stated in a press release that the minister should provide records of funds received during her tenure and is ready for an open discussion. The people of Udupi have lost faith in the minister and the state government.