Mangaluru: Muneer Katipalla, District Secretary of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) in Dakshina Kannada, has held the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) and local representatives responsible for the tragic death of Ashraf, a road accident victim.
Ashraf lost his life after sustaining severe injuries in an accident on a pothole-ridden stretch of National Highway 66, between Nanthoor and Surathkal. The road, known for its numerous deep potholes, poses a constant danger—especially for two-wheeler riders—leading to repeated mishaps.
Addressing a protest held at Surathkal Junction, organized by the Nagarika Horata Samiti (Kana–Surathkal), Muneer strongly criticized the authorities for their negligence and inaction, accusing them of being “asleep” while innocent lives are lost. He demanded compensation for Ashraf’s grieving family and called for those responsible in the NHAI to be held accountable.
He also lashed out at MP Brijesh Chowta, accusing him of ignoring critical infrastructure issues and indulging in divisive politics instead of focusing on public safety. Muneer warned that if urgent road repairs aren’t undertaken, intensified protests would follow.
The protest drew support from DYFI district president BK Imtiyaz, activist TN Ramesh, and Ashraf’s friend Dheeraj Prasad Mysuru, all of whom expressed their anger and concern over the poor condition of the highway.
The accident occurred on June 9, when Ashraf and Mahammad Sharief were riding a scooter near Panambur. A speeding tanker, driven by Ram Raj, struck them. Ashraf succumbed to his injuries despite emergency care, while Sharief was hospitalized.
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