Mangaluru Youth Parliament witnesses heated debate on 400 kV power line, drug menace and teachers’ issues

Mangaluru Youth Parliament witnesses heated debate on 400 kV power line, drug menace and teachers’ issues

Mangalore Today News Network

Mangaluru, Oct 31, 2026: Heated exchanges between the ruling party and the Opposition marked the district-level Youth Parliament competition held in Mangaluru, with students debating several pressing issues, including the proposed 400 kV power transmission line passing over agricultural land, the growing drug menace, scholarships and the challenges faced by government school teachers.

The programme was organised as part of the International Day of Democracy celebrations and jointly conducted by the Dakshina Kannada Zilla Panchayat and the Departments of Social Welfare, School Education and Literacy, Higher Education, and Law, Justice and Human Rights.

The session began with the House paying tribute to legendary playback singer S. Janaki, who passed away recently.

During Question Hour, the Leader of the Opposition raised concerns over the proposed 400 kV power transmission line passing through Udupi, Moodbidri and Kasaragod. She pointed out that the project could lead to large-scale destruction of forests, with 8,145 trees already identified for felling.

Responding on behalf of the Forest Minister, the Chief Minister appreciated the Opposition’s concern for the environment but maintained that the transmission line would not cause environmental damage.

As the arguments intensified, the Speaker intervened, observing that there was no need for an extended discussion on a single issue after the ruling party had already responded.

The Opposition also raised concerns over the increasing sale of narcotic substances near educational institutions and demanded stringent measures to curb the menace.

Responding to the issue, the Chief Minister said the Home Department was closely monitoring the situation. Police personnel were conducting inspections around educational institutions to check for drug sales. He said the government was committed to preventing drug abuse and was also creating awareness through social media reels and street plays.

The condition of government school teachers also came under discussion. A member alleged that teachers were not receiving their salaries regularly and were being burdened with various additional responsibilities, making their working conditions difficult.

In response, the minister said initiatives had been undertaken to repair classrooms and improve the quality of life of teachers.

DDPI Shashidhar, Social Welfare Department Deputy Director Hemalatha and others were present at the inaugural programme.