Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (TP)
Udupi, Dec 24: Allegations of religious conversions at a prayer hall near Diana Hotel, Jodukatte, sparked intense discussions during the general body meeting of the Udupi City Council on December 24.
Ruling party member Vijay Kodavoor raised concerns, questioning the legality of activities at the prayer hall. “In addition to providing education, they are conducting programs here. Is this permitted under the law? What permissions has the City Council granted for this building?” he inquired.
MLA Yashpal Suvarna weighed in, stating, “Provocative writings have been displayed on the premises of this prayer hall. These must be removed immediately. No one will be allowed to convert a residence into a conversion centre by illegally expanding it. This is unlawful, and the unauthorized structure must be demolished immediately.”
The revenue officer clarified that permission was initially granted for a 1,126-square-foot residential building, but inspections revealed that the structure exceeded 4,000 square feet. “We have sought documentation from the building owners regarding the permissions obtained,” the officer noted.
MLA Suvarna demanded swift action, saying, “The records must be with the City Council. There is no need to wait for the owners. If the structure is unauthorized, take action as per the law without delay.”
Opposition leader Ramesh Kanchan countered, “After obtaining building permissions, owners often expand the structures as they wish. Demolishing the building would create unnecessary confusion. If conversions are taking place, take action against that. There are many temples and community halls that have expanded beyond permitted limits. I can provide a list of such cases. Will action be taken against them as well?”
The debate became heated, with arguments exchanged between BJP members Vijay Kodavoor, Girish Anchan, and opposition leader Ramesh Kanchan.
On the construction of the overpass at Ambalpady junction, MLA Suvarna assured that the work would continue as planned. “The project commenced with proper notification to residents. If funds had been released during Oscar Fernandes' tenure, these issues wouldn’t have arisen. However, PM Narendra Modi and Minister Nitin Gadkari have prioritized highway upgrades, ensuring future service roads from Kallianpur to Karavi and Kinnimulki to Korangrapadi,” he stated.
CMC members criticized the opposition's suggestion for a pillar-based flyover, which came after the tender was passed and construction had begun. They urged opposition members to avoid statements aimed at publicity.
Ramesh Kanchan also expressed concerns about delays in road construction projects, highlighting the need to maintain public confidence in contractors. “The Ambalpady junction project must not face the same fate. While I support the overpass, an elevator should also be constructed to avoid dividing the city,” he remarked.
The meeting, presided over by CMC Udupi president Prabhakara Poojary, was attended by CMC commissioner Uday Shetty, vice-president Rajani Hebbar, officers, staff, and councillors.