Mangaluru: The Dakshina Kannada District Congress Committee has announced a protest against the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) at Nanthoor on September 12, citing severe negligence in road maintenance. According to district Congress president Harish Kumar, poorly maintained stretches of the national highway have led to accidents, injuries, and even fatalities.

Following the protest, Congress leaders plan to march to the NHAI office and submit a formal memorandum demanding urgent repairs of potholes on the region’s highways.

Criticism of BJP leaders

Harish Kumar targeted state BJP leaders C T Ravi, Ashok, and Vijayendra, accusing them of silence over the recent death of Madhavi at Kulur, which he attributed to poor road conditions. He questioned why BJP representatives had not demanded compensation for the victim’s family or held the NHAI accountable.

Law and order in Dakshina Kannada

Commenting on the security situation, the Congress leader said peace has largely returned to Dakshina Kannada district due to strict policing measures.

He praised the Superintendent of Police (SP) and the Police Commissioner for curbing issues such as provocative speeches, drugs, gambling, matka rackets, and illegal activities that once disturbed communal harmony.

On recent festivals, he noted that Ganeshotsava celebrations were held peacefully, thanks to effective enforcement of rules. He welcomed police action against organisers who used mics and sound systems without permission, and backed the ban on DJs, calling them harmful to public health.

GST remarks

On the Goods and Services Tax (GST), Harish Kumar said that while the Congress welcomes the Centre’s decision to reduce tax rates, the move was in line with the party’s long-standing demands. He described the reduction as a “victory for Rahul Gandhi’s voice,” crediting his consistent opposition to GST hikes.

Leaders in attendance

Other Congress leaders, including Sahul Hameed, Shashidhar Hegde, and Sadashiv Ullal, joined the press meet, extending support to the planned protest and the party’s stand on governance and taxation issues.

Conclusion

MANGALURU: With the protest scheduled for September 12, the Congress is set to take its grievances directly to the NHAI, demanding swift action on road repairs to prevent further accidents. By linking the issue to governance, law and order, and national taxation policy, the district Congress is also positioning itself to highlight broader accountability questions before the public.