Udupi: Villagers protesting against the closure of a vital road leading to the Kanchugod Sanyasiballe cemetery under the Gujjadi Gram Panchayat called off their overnight sit-in after receiving a firm assurance from Byndoor MLA Gururaja Gantihole.
The protest erupted after private individuals began constructing a compound wall, allegedly blocking access to the cemetery used by the community for generations. Villagers expressed strong opposition, demanding immediate action to halt the construction.
Visiting the protest site, MLA Gantihole declared the wall illegal and called for an immediate stop to the work. He stated, “The land near the shore has been traditionally used for burials. It must not be handed over to private interests. Legal procedures must be followed, and an access path to the cemetery should be ensured.”
He emphasized that while private development isn’t opposed, the villagers’ rights and sentiments must be respected. Warning against arrogance and overreach, he added that the entire Byndoor constituency would unite in protest if necessary.
Sub-Divisional Officer Ravindra, responding to the villagers’ appeal, confirmed that instructions had been issued to halt the wall construction and that legal measures would be taken to protect the cemetery land.
Also present were Revenue Inspector Raghavendra Devadiga, Gujjadi PDO, BJP Mandal General Secretary Karan Poojary, Vice President Mithun Devadiga, MLC Manjunath Bhandari, and former MLA K. Gopal Poojary. The protest saw active participation from locals, including women, reflecting the community’s deep concern.