Raghupathi Bhat Holds Indefinite Protest Against UUDA
Udupi: Former MLA Raghupathi Bhat held an indefinite protest (dharna satyagraha) in front of the Udupi Urban Development Authority (UUDA) office, alleging an inordinate delay in the approval of his layout plan.
Bhat stated that he had applied on March 20, 2024, seeking approval for a single layout plan to develop a resort on a 90-cent plot in Badanidiyoor village. However, he alleged that the authority has failed to grant approval even after two years, prompting him to begin the protest at 9:30 am on March 23.
He demanded that the authority either approve the layout plan or issue a written rejection. He further said that the protest would continue until a clear decision is communicated, adding that he would pursue legal action if the application is rejected.
Several organisations and members of the public have extended their support to the protest and participated in the dharna.
Responding to the allegations, UUDA Commissioner Mahesh J. stated that there are no legal hurdles in Bhat’s application. He added that further action would be taken after obtaining a legal opinion in connection with a Public Interest Litigation filed in the High Court by Karavali Yuvak Mandal.
UUDA Chairman Dinkar Herur said that the Badanidiyoor layout proposal had been discussed in a general body meeting, and a decision was taken to bring it to a final stage. He also noted that directions had been issued to the Commissioner to proceed in accordance with the law, but alleged non-compliance with those instructions.