Tensions escalated in Karkala this morning as local police intervened to halt a poster campaign initiated by Congress activists demanding the resignation of MLA V. Sunil Kumar. Authorities detained several protestors after they gathered at the Congress office and attempted to march towards the MLA's residence to affix posters.
The Congress's campaign directly linked MLA Sunil Kumar to corruption allegations concerning the construction of a fake Parasurama idol. Protestors drew parallels to recent high-profile resignations, specifically citing Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan's departure amid NEET examination irregularities and state minister Nagendra's resignation following the Valmiki Corporation scam. Activists voiced their demands on the streets, shouting slogans such as 'Sunil Kumar must resign' during their demonstration.
Following the police action, BJP workers also converged near MLA Sunil Kumar's house, office, and the BJP office, protesting against the Congress's poster drive. Their arrival from various locations further intensified the atmosphere in Karkala. In response to the escalating situation and the suspension of the poster campaign, police deployed additional personnel and implemented tight security measures to prevent any untoward incidents.
Congress leaders affirmed their resolve to continue the campaign, stating that the poster drive would not be limited to today or tomorrow but would persist in the coming days, with activists determined to paste posters at the MLA's house. Prominent figures participating in the protest included Block Congress president Shubhada Rao, Youth Congress president Suraj Shetty Nakre, Sudhakar Shetty Mudaru, former municipal president Subhit NR, and former member Vivekananda Shenai.
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📰 Source: Vartha Bharati Udupi