Udupi district, 23 September 2026 – Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar declared that the state government will take a conclusive decision on the Kasturi Rangan report after a three‑day special session held at the Hebri Government Degree College ground.
The gathering, scheduled for 21, 22 and 23 September, brought together residents, elected representatives and members of several local organisations from the 35 villages that belong to 24 Grama Panchayats identified as affected by the report. Participants voiced concerns, shared data and examined the Kerala‑style physical survey model proposed for the region.
During the opening day, the chief minister reiterated that the final recommendation will be forwarded to the centre before 27 September. He also confirmed his itinerary for the following day, which includes visits to Teerthahalli and Balehonnur to attend additional village meetings.
Forest Minister Ramaling Reddy’s advice shaped the agenda, prompting a discussion on forest‑rights issues. The chief minister indicated that a uniform tenure of 25 years for forest‑right holders will be recommended, with a separate provision for a 75‑year period where justified, and that the matter will be placed before the central government.
Other topics addressed included fisheries‑related decisions, a demand for a taluk hospital in Hebri and the implementation of land‑allocation schemes for displaced families. Prominent speakers such as senior advocate T.B. Shetty, state president of the Malekudi community Sridhar Gowda, Udupi Farmers Union leader Udai Kumar Vandas, former Hebri Grama Panchayat president Naveen Adyantay, former Nandpal Grama Panchayat member Dinesh Hegde, Congress leader Muniyalu Udayakumar Shetty, MP Kote Srinivas Poojari and MLA Sunil Kumar contributed to the deliberations.
Shivakumar concluded by assuring villagers that the government’s focus remains on tangible solutions rather than political rhetoric, and pledged continued engagement with all stakeholders.
Image for illustration purposes only
📰 Source: Vartha Bharati Udupi