A significant controversy has erupted in Madikeri regarding the installation of a statue of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, with allegations of unauthorized fundraising surfacing despite substantial government funds being allocated for the project.
Allegations of Unauthorized Donations
M.N. Rajappa, the divisional coordinator for the Dalit Sangharsh Samiti (DSS), addressed the media, revealing concerning details about the project's finances. He confirmed that the Madikeri City Municipal Council (CMC) had earmarked Rs 20 lakh for the statue, which is planned near Sudarshana Circle. The local MLA, Manthar Gowda, committed an additional Rs 24 lakh, bringing the total project cost to Rs 44 lakh.
Rajappa expressed dismay that it recently came to light that certain individuals associated with the project's monitoring committee had been soliciting and accepting donations from government employees and officials. He strongly questioned the necessity of such collections when the government had already sanctioned the full amount. "When the govt is spending Rs 44 lakh, there is no need to receive donations," he stated.
The Monitoring Committee's Role
The monitoring committee was formed by MLA Manthar Gowda with a dual mandate: to supervise the construction of the statue and to ensure the site's maintenance after completion. Committee members were expected to cooperate and facilitate the construction process. However, the alleged actions of some members in seeking extra funds have cast a shadow over the committee's operations and raised questions about financial transparency.
Demand for Action in Hubballi Murder Case
Shifting focus to another critical issue, Rajappa vehemently demanded the immediate arrest of all accused involved in the murder of a pregnant Dalit woman in Inam Veerampura, Hubballi. The crime followed an inter-caste marriage. He drew a sharp contrast, pointing out that while right-wing organizations had recently protested against the killing of Hindus in Bangladesh, they maintained a conspicuous silence on this "inhuman act" committed within Karnataka against a Dalit youth and his pregnant wife.
Widespread Support for the Stance
The press conference saw the presence of several DSS leaders, indicating collective concern. Attendees included DSS State Organisation coordinator Rajashekar, District Committee members Ponnappa, Dilaksha, and Manjunath, along with Somwarpet Taluk coordinator Chandrashekar.
The developments highlight two pressing concerns: the need for accountability in the use of public funds for community projects and the urgent call for justice in cases of violence against marginalized communities. The DSS's statements put the spotlight on both local governance and broader social justice issues in the state.
