Pic: Harshini Brahmavar

Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (HB/DC)

Udupi, Oct 22: Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MLC Kota Srinivas Poojary on Monday, October 22 extended support for indefinite protest call given on October 25 against sand mining ban.

Speaking to media persons, Poojary said, "We support indefinite strike call given on October 25 against sand mining irrespective of party. On September 23, MLAs and the chief minister discussed the sand issue and decided that from October 15 sand mining will restart. But due to stubbornness of the DC, no action has been taken yet."

"People from north Karnataka migrate in search of jobs. Similarly people of Udupi who are dependent on sand mining will also face such situation. In Byndoor and Kundapur, eco zones have been identified. Out of 27 sand bars, 9 have been given permit whereas seven are approved. People are on roads. We need justice. We cannot wait anymore. District administration is solely responsible for the failure of law and order," he added.

He further said, "In last two decades I have not seen such anti-government atmosphere. The lorries were seized when they were moving towards DCs office. This is against law."

Speaking about by-polls Poojary said, "BJP has strong hand in Jamakhandi, where as in Ballari it is difficult to win. In Mandya and Ramanagara new faces will win."

Commenting on senior Congress leader Siddaramaiah and JD(S) supremo H D Devegowda, he said, "They both are in good terms. But JD(S) and H D Devegowda will help to create a Congress-free state without the help of BJP."