ZP President Shailaja Bhat wishes to remain ZP member

ZP President Shailaja Bhat wishes to remain ZP member

Mangalore Today News Network

Mangalore, Oct. 1, 2012: K. T. Shailaja Bhat, outgoing president of the DK Zilla Panchayat, said that she does not desire an MLA ticket, but will continue working as a member of the Zilla Panchayat.

Addressing reporters at a press meet held in the ZP office on Monday, Ms. Bhat said that she is not interested in contesting for an MLA post. Stating that she has always acted as per the guidance of senior party leaders and elders, she confirmed that she will continue being a member of the Zilla Panchayat.

 

She then presented a report of the achievements of the Zilla Panchayat during her tenure. Stating that the ZP has undertaken projects worth Rs. 465 crore, she said that several NGOs have partnered with the ZP in undertaking developmental projects. She also acknowledged the role of several people in helping the ZP bag national awards and honors. Stating that the DK ZP has climbed from the 21st position to the 7th position, she expressed hopes that it will soon become number one.

When a reporter wanted to know why the ZP is slow to address the Endosulphan issue, DK ZP CEO Dr. K. N. Vijayprakash said that there are an estimated 1,300 Endosulphan victims in DK, adding that the ZP will conduct a survey this month after which the government will give a compensation of Rs. 5 lakh per victim affected 100% by Endosulphan and Rs. 3 lakh for each victim affected less than 100%. A proposal for the construction of permanent residential facilities for Endosulphan victims has also been placed before the government, which is now exploring possibilities of partnering with various hospitals to give free treatment for them.

When asked about the steps taken by the ZP to ban Endosulphan, Ms. Bhat said that the ZP is exploring possibilities of promoting organic farming to do away with the adverse effects of chemicals.

Regarding packages for Malekudiyas, Mr. Vijayprakash said that the government has sanctioned a package of Rs. 95 lakh for the development of the Malekudiya tribe in DK.