Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (TP)

Udupi, May 21: In a powerful display of patriotism and unity, the Rashtra Rakshana Samithi organized a grand Tiranga Yatra in Udupi on May 20, in honor of the Indian Army and as part of the Operation Sindhoor Vijayotsav. The event was a public condemnation of the recent terror attack and massacre in Pahalgam, Kashmir.

The rally commenced from Jodukatte and concluded at the Jatka stand, drawing hundreds of participants who marched with a 30-foot-long tricolor flag. Along the way, floral tributes were offered to the national flag, and slogans like “Vande Mataram” and “Bharat Mata Ki Jai” echoed through the streets, creating a spirited and patriotic atmosphere.

Addressing the gathering, retired soldier Suresh Rao Barkur emphasized India’s military strength, stating, “India has the fourth most powerful army in the world. With strong leadership, advanced weaponry, and brave soldiers, we are ready for any challenge. Pakistan, which survives on aid and loans, has felt the impact of India’s firm response. If it dares to repeat such attacks, it must face an unforgettable lesson.”

The event was graced by several dignitaries, including Fr Praveen D’Souza, assistant parish priest of Mother of Sorrows Church, Colonel F A Rodrigues, Dr Sukanya Mary, former principal of Poorna Prajna Evening College, and Keshava Malpe, President of the Retired Soldiers Association. All shared messages of national pride and unity.

Vijetha Shetty compered the programme.

Among the key political figures present were MP Kota Srinivas Poojary, Udupi MLA Yashpal A Suvarna, Kaup MLA Gurme Suresh Shetty, Kundapur MLA Kiran Kodgi, Byndoor MLA Gururaj Gantihole, Udupi City Municipal Council president Prabhakar Poojary, K Uday Kumar Shetty (BJP Convener – Mangaluru Region), Kuilday Suresh Nayak, former MLA K Raghupathi Bhat, Srinidhi Hegde, and several others.