Mangaluru: President of Kannada Chalavali Vatal Paksha, Vatal Nagaraj held a press meet at Hotel Moti Mahal here, on January 14.
He regretted for saying that the people of Dakshina Kannada had ‘no humanity’ when the protest against Kalasa–Banduri canal project received lukewarm response from the people of the district. He was greeted by protesters outside Hotel Moti Mahal.
Addressing the mediapersons, Nagaraj said, “I am not aware of the specific details of the Yettinahole project, but I believe that it is the right of the people to have access to drinking water. In this regard I will hold a meeting with the Chief Minister in 2 to 3 days and urge him to hold a discussion with the people so that a suitable solution for the issue is found.”
When asked if he will join the protest against Yettinahole project, Nagaraj said, “I have lived my life dedicated to struggle and it is a duty of the CM to debate and come up with a solution.”
Speaking on the Supreme Court directive, making it compulsory for the pillion riders to wear a helmet, Nagaraj said, “I don’t understand why the SC has bought this rule. It is a big issue as a pillion rider can be anyone needing a ride. It is not possible for anyone to carry a helmet around. There is no clarity about children wearing helmets and it will serve as a oppression for the women pillion riders. Helmets are necessary, but the decision to wear it should be left to the people to decide.”
He said that he will discuss with the lawyers and appeal against the directive. He said, “Two-wheelers are used by poor and this new rule will add to their woes. It is the duty of Lok Sabha members to discuss this issue and come up with a solution. Crores of people are affected by this. We will hold a meet of two-wheeler riders in Bengaluru on January 16 and openly protest against it.”
