Mangaluru, October 4, 2026: Dakshina Kannada MP Brijesh Chowta has initiated a strong public campaign to establish a Karnataka High Court bench in Mangaluru. Speaking at a recent consultative meeting held this past Saturday, Chowta underscored the necessity of a united front involving public representatives, legal fraternity members, and general citizens to champion this cause.
Highlighting Mangaluru's prominence as a major city in Karnataka, Chowta asserted the coastal city's rightful claim to a High Court bench. He detailed plans for taluk-level meetings, led by local MLAs, to gauge and consolidate public opinion regarding the proposed judicial establishment. Chowta emphasized that a High Court bench would significantly elevate Mangaluru's stature and contribute substantially to the comprehensive development of Dakshina Kannada district.
Supporting the initiative, Mangaluru Bar Association president Jagadish Shenava welcomed the expansion of the movement beyond legal circles, noting that a High Court bench would greatly benefit the general public. MLA Vedavyas Kamath echoed this sentiment, confirming widespread support for the demand and stressing the importance of presenting the government with compelling documentary evidence to demonstrate the necessity of a bench in the city.
Former Bar Association president H.V. Raghavendra provided an update on the movement's progress, while senior advocate M.P. Noronha proposed a strategic, phased approach to effectively persuade the government. Other influential figures who addressed the gathering included former Rajya Sabha member B. Ibrahim, former MLC Monappa Bhandary, former minister B. Nagaraja Shetty, Canara Chamber of Commerce president Divakar Kocchikar, Mangaluru Press Club president P.B. Harish Rai, IMA representative Dr Annayya Kulal, Lions Club representative Vinod, and Tulu Nadu Rakshana Vedike founder-president Yogish Shetty Jeppu. Advocate Shridhar Shetty Pulincha delivered the vote of thanks, and Jagadish K.R. expertly compered the proceedings.
Image for illustration purposes only
📰 Source: Mangalore Today