Mangaluru: The Mangaladevi ward development project, a key initiative under the Mangaluru Smart City mission, is set to be inaugurated for the second time within a week after allegations of a protocol breach arose during the first event.
On February 9, Mayor Manoj Kumar, MP Capt Brijesh Chowta, MLA Vedavyas Kamath, and former Mayor Premanand Shetty unveiled the ₹7.85 crore project, which includes a primary health center, veterinary clinic, modern bus terminal, residential complex for municipal staff, and a community park. However, the absence of district in-charge minister Dinesh Gundu Rao or any Congress leaders sparked controversy.
Despite the health center commencing operations, it was later shut down for a second inauguration, leaving patients in distress. On February 13, Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao ordered action against officials, claiming his office was not informed in advance, calling it a clear violation of protocol.
In response, Mayor Manoj Kumar denied wrongdoing, stating that officials were notified well in advance, shifting the responsibility to the deputy commissioner. He dismissed any knowledge of a second event, suggesting it was a politically motivated move.
Strongly opposing the health center closure, MLA Vedavyas Kamath accused the Congress government of prioritizing political prestige over public welfare, branding the re-inauguration as unprecedented and disgraceful. He asserted that the BJP government initiated the project, and its completion was due to collaborative efforts by BJP leaders.
Mocking the situation, Kamath remarked, “If the minister wants a second inauguration, why not re-inaugurate every event he has missed?”
Reports confirm the re-inauguration is set for February 15.
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