DK in-charge minister Dinesh Gundu Rao objects to NMPT’s breach of protocol; writes to Union Minister

Mangalore Today News Network

Mangaluru, Nov 13, 2025: Dakshina Kannada district in-charge minister Dinesh Gundu Rao has written to Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal and the Chairman of the New Mangalore Port Authority (NMPA) alleging a breach of protocol during the Golden Jubilee celebrations of the port.

He stated that the district in-charge minister was not invited to the official event, which amounts to a display of disrespect and a violation of official protocol.

The Golden Jubilee celebrations of the NMPA were held on November 13 at Dr B.R. Ambedkar Stadium in Panambur, attended by several Union ministers and local representatives. “It is regrettable that the district in-charge minister was not invited. While sometimes such lapses in protocol occur unintentionally, this incident appears deliberate,” Rao wrote in his letter.

He further pointed out that the NMPA had not forgotten to invite present and former BJP representatives, suggesting that the port authority had shown allegiance to its “political masters.”

“The contribution of New Mangalore Port to the nation over the past five decades is undeniable. However, the current administration seems to have displayed bias toward a particular political party. Despite the disrespect shown to the state government, I wish for the port’s continued progress,” the minister stated.

He concluded by expressing hope that in the future, regardless of which party holds power at the Centre or in the state, the NMPA will adhere to proper protocol and ensure that Mangaluru Port is recognised as Karnataka’s gateway, not the BJP’s gateway.