Strict action against those involved in violent activities: Dinesh Gundurao

Strict action against those involved in violent activities: Dinesh Gundurao

Mangalore Today News Network

Mangaluru, Jan 26, 2026: The government will not allow any group or individual to mislead local youth for personal gain and encourage them to engage in violent activities. The state will take strict action against such acts without hesitation, clarified Dinesh Gundurao, Minister in charge of Dakshina Kannada district.

He made these remarks while hoisting the national flag at Nehru Maidan in the city on Monday as part of the district-level Republic Day celebrations.

He emphasized that if everyone follows the true principles of their own religion while respecting others, society will enjoy peace and harmony. “When peace and coordination are established, the district will develop, and the quality of life of its residents will improve,” he said.

The government has taken several steps to maintain law and order in the district. Good governance and law enforcement are essential for comprehensive development, and public cooperation is crucial in this regard. “We must recognize that divisive forces that disrupt society hinder progress,” he added.

Thanks to government efforts, law and order have improved, creating a strong foundation for all-round development. This will help prevent youth from migrating to other states or countries for employment and promote local job opportunities, the minister said.

Regarding infrastructure, the modernization project of Mangaluru Fishing Harbour is being implemented at an estimated cost of ₹37 crore. The project includes the construction of a new 320-meter-long jetty, development of all modern facilities, reconstruction of auction halls, and installation of drainage systems. The work will soon be completed and opened for public use, fulfilling demands of fishermen that have persisted for decades, he stated.

Ananya Srivastava, a Delhi-based IPS probationer, served as the parade commander and conducted the parade in Kannada.

During the event, 10 students who scored the highest marks in SSLC exams in government schools were honored with a cash prize of ₹50,000 each instead of computers this year.

Similarly, drivers who served accident-free for 15 years in KSRTC were awarded silver medals in recognition of their service.

The ceremony was attended by several dignitaries, including MP Captain Brijesh Chaut, District Commissioner Darshan, IGP Amit Singh, Police Commissioner Sudheer Reddy, SP Arun Kumar, Additional District Commissioner Raju, and heads of various corporations and academies.

The family of Sindhu Shri, who donated organs after death, was also honored during the event.

After the formal program, cultural performances were presented by students from Betterd Resal, Yenepoya, Carmel, and St. Agnes schools.

The Bharat Sevadal team from Mullakadu School won first place in a poetry competition, while the Scouts boys’ team from Government High School, Kinnikambal, secured second place and were felicitated with a rolling shield.

The program was anchored by Manjula Shetty and Umesh.

On a national policy note, the minister criticized the central government for scrapping the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA), a scheme previously implemented under the UPA government to guarantee meaningful employment for millions of Indians living near the poverty line. Over the past 20 years, the scheme had been effective.

He stated that the new plan, which transfers extensive state powers to the center, is anti-poor, anti-labor, and unconstitutional. By undermining citizens’ choices under the vague notion of a “Developed India” and bringing employment rights under central control, the move is against public interest.

“Neglecting the principle of decentralization, the transfer of powers from workers, panchayats, and states to the center is opposed by the state government both legally and morally,” he added.