BJP workers slams MP Brijesh Chowta over Bannadka Highway accidents

Mangalore Today News Network

Mangaluru, May 15, 2026: Brijesh Chowta is facing criticism from within his own party after BJP workers and local leaders accused him of responding insensitively to concerns over a series of fatal accidents on the Bannadka stretch of National Highway 169.

The controversy erupted after social media posts by BJP Moolki-Moodbidri mandal vice-president Suraj Jain alleged that the MP behaved irresponsibly when party leaders approached him seeking intervention in the road safety issue.

According to Suraj Jain, nearly eight people have lost their lives in accidents on the under-construction highway connecting Mangaluru and Karkala over the past three years. Locals have blamed the absence of service roads and “unscientific” highway works for around 20 reported accidents, including four mishaps within the last three days that allegedly claimed the life of a woman.

A delegation led by Suraj Jain had reportedly met MP Brijesh Chowta to demand immediate safety measures and construction of service roads. However, the MP’s alleged remarks during the meeting triggered outrage among party workers and the public.

According to the allegations shared on social media, the MP questioned how the accidents could be directly blamed on the highway department or the ongoing works. He reportedly stated that service roads could not be built until the project was completed and asked the delegation to approach those who had submitted petitions in 2023.

The MP was also accused of saying that he was “not afraid of public protests” and that he could not immediately visit the accident spot, adding that he would inspect the area whenever he happened to travel that side.

The alleged comments sparked anger among local BJP workers and residents already disturbed by the repeated accidents at Bannadka. Social media platforms saw a wave of criticism against the MP, with several users accusing him of displaying an indifferent attitude towards public safety concerns.

The issue has now exposed visible discontent within BJP ranks in Dakshina Kannada, with party functionaries openly expressing frustration against their own MP over the handling of the highway tragedy concerns.