Udupi: Former Lokayukta Justice N. Santosh Hegde stressed that compassion and humanity are the only true paths to social peace and unity. He made these remarks after receiving the prestigious Padma Vibhushan George Fernandes Memorial National Award, presented by the Jayashree Krishna Environment Lover Committee, during a ceremony at Ocean Pearl Hotel, Udupi.
Justice Hegde stated that India’s financial condition could have reached far greater heights if not for widespread corruption. “The real sufferers of scams are the poor and marginalized, not the wealthy. Government schemes meant to uplift the last person in line are being derailed by greed,” he said.
He warned that if such massive corruption continues unchecked, societal unrest is inevitable. “If the rightful beneficiaries are denied support, a revolution could erupt. And if that unrest stems from divisions like religion or language, India could fracture into over two dozen new nations,” he cautioned.
Committee Chairperson Nityanand D. Kotian presided over the event. Distinguished guests included Udupi-Chikkamagaluru MP Kota Srinivas Poojary, MLC Ivan D’Souza, former MLC Ganesh Karnika, actor Suman Talwar, and Adani Group Executive Director Kishore Alva.
Also present were committee General Secretary Mundkur Surendra Salyan and State Coordinator K.P. Jagadish Adhikari. Founder Thonse Jayasreeshna A. Shetty delivered the keynote address. District Working President Harish Kumar M. Shetty extended a warm welcome, while Dayasagar Chowta hosted the event.
Read Also: