Mangaluru : In a significant development, Legislative Assembly Speaker U.T. Khader has voiced his support for the long-standing demand for a High Court bench in Mangaluru. He assured cooperation in submitting a proposal to the state government, Chief Minister, Law Minister, and Chief Secretary during a recent meeting with the struggle committee and local lawyers, who presented a memorandum on Friday.
Khader expressed solidarity with the cause, affirming his commitment to assist in the ongoing agitation for the establishment of the High Court bench. The struggle committee’s members had previously met with Mangaluru MP Brijesh Chauhan, who also assured them of his support, pledging to facilitate all necessary measures to advance the proposal.
Additionally, the committee engaged with Mangaluru University Vice-Chancellor Prof. P.L. Dharma, officials, and representatives from various colleges, seeking their backing for the initiative. They urged the academic community to rally behind the movement, highlighting the numerous benefits a High Court bench would bring to the region.
Key figures present at the meeting included struggle committee convenor Ivan D’Souza, Mangaluru Bar Association President H.V. Raghavendra, and other prominent members such as Secretary Shreethar H., Treasurer Girish Shetty, former President Prithviraj Rai, senior advocate M.P. Noronha, and Executive Committee member Sumana Sharan.
The push for a High Court bench in Mangaluru has been a persistent demand, with the struggle committee amplifying its efforts in recent months. Establishing the proposed bench is anticipated to benefit residents of Dakshina Kannada, Udupi, and Kodagu districts, significantly reducing the need to travel to Bengaluru for judicial proceedings.
With increasing support from influential leaders and organizations, the agitation for the High Court bench is gaining traction. The struggle committee plans to escalate its protests and discussions with key stakeholders to strengthen their case for the establishment of the bench in Mangaluru.