Primary and high school athletes from Mangaluru North Zone converged at Swaraj Maidan in Moodbidri on Friday for their annual taluk-level athletics meet, an event jointly orchestrated by the D.K. Zilla Panchayat School Education Department, the Block Education Officer's office, and Kinnigoli Rotary English Medium School. However, the inaugural ceremony was marred by an unexpected walkout from local MLA Umanath Kotian, who expressed strong displeasure over perceived neglect during the proceedings.
Earlier in the day, Dr. M. Mohan Alva, President of Alva's Education Foundation, officially inaugurated the sports gathering. Addressing the young participants, Dr. Alva underscored the vital importance of extracurricular pursuits alongside academic studies, highlighting sports' crucial role in promoting overall health. He encouraged all students to compete with genuine sportsmanship.
MLA Kotian, who was slated to preside over the event, later voiced his anger on stage, reprimanding officials for what he described as insufficient recognition. The legislator protested that only a single line referring to him had been included in the program's details, leading to his decision to exit the venue prematurely.
Despite the brief disruption, the event continued with various dignitaries participating in the traditional ceremonies. Veda Murthy Vasudeva Asranna, hereditary trustee of Kateel Temple, delivered the benedictory address, while Rotary District Governor Satish Bolar hoisted the flag. KMF Director K.P. Sucharitha Shetty administered the sports oath to the young athletes, and Mangaluru North Zone Block Education Officer James Cutinha received the guard of honor during the march past.
Other prominent individuals present included Block Resource Coordinator Vedavathi, Taluk Physical Education Officer Ritesh Shetty, Rotary Assistant Governor Joel D'Souza, and Zonal Commander Vijetha. Kinnigoli Rotary Club President Praveen Salian, Moodbidri Rotary Mid Town President Praveen Kotian, and School Vice President Shesharaya also attended. Journalist Sharath Shetty welcomed the assembly, Jeevan Shetty provided an introductory speech, and School Headmistress Sunitha Gururaj extended the vote of thanks, with Teacher Prasad Acharya compering the program.
Image: varthabharati.in
📰 Source: Vartha Bharati DK