Udupi: Social activist Dr. Shanbhag, here on October 31, has rejected the Kannada Rajyotsava award citing government officials’ irresponsibility and non-implementation of the Senior Citizens Protection Act.
It may be recalled that on October 30, the state government had announced the list of Kannada Rajyotsava awardees which will be conferred on November 1 in a function to be held at Ravindra Kalakshetra.
Human Rights Protection Foundation President Dr. Shanbhag, speaking to reporters, said, ” Government officers like K G Jagadeesha, Dr. Vishal have insulted the senior citizens by not taking any action and providing justice. I do not want Rs 1 Lakh and a gold coin or anything which they are providing me through this award. I demand justice for those hundreds of human rights victims especially senior citizens who are suffering.”
“I respect the jury and the state government for selecting me for the award. I do not want to insult anybody but I will not be receiving the award. I have been fighting for the implementation of the Senior Citizens Protection Act since several years. Many senior citizens are suffering and waiting for justice and it is not correct on my part to receive the award,” he clarified.
The state government on October 30, announced the list of 62 Rajyotsava awardees for the year 2017 for their contribution to the society. Notable among the winners are Justice Nagamohan Das, writer Vaidehi, historian Ramachandra Guha and actor Mukhya Mantri Chandru.
Under social service, Dr. Ravindra Shanbag (Udupi) along with Meera Nayak (Mysuru) and Lt. Gen. Ramesh Halgili (Bagalkote) were selected for the award.
