MLA Kamath extends support for renaming Dakshina Kannada to Mangaluru District

Mangalore Today News Network

Mangaluru, July 5, 2025: As the movement to rename Dakshina Kannada district to "Mangaluru" gains momentum, MLA Vedavyas Kamath voiced his full support for the cause, stating that he stands firmly with the "Mangaluru District Tulu Rights Committee" — a united platform comprising leaders from all religions, political parties, and organizations.

Kamath said that historically, the region of Tulu Nadu was renamed South Canara during the Portuguese and British rule. Later, after India’s independence and the reorganization of states, it was renamed Dakshina Kannada. However, historical records show that the name "Dakshina Kannada" holds no real connection to the land or its cultural roots.

He emphasized that the demand for renaming the district is not new and has existed for over a hundred years. Renaming it to "Mangaluru District" would also strengthen the larger movement to protect and promote the Tulu language and identity.

“Though the region has long suffered economic injustice, we Tuluvas have endured it. But any injustice to our culture will not be tolerated,” he said.

MLA Kamath added that just as many places across India, including in Uttar Pradesh, have undergone renaming to reflect local heritage, the process for renaming Dakshina Kannada should also be carried out legally and systematically. He assured that he would support and lead any required efforts in his role as both a legislator and committee coordinator.

Appealing to all Tuluvas, he urged every household and individual in Tulu Nadu to unite and participate in this movement. He also called on the Congress-led state government to recognize and respect the sentiments of the Tulu-speaking population and act accordingly.

Kamath expresses outrage over severe disruption in red stone and sand supply

The decisions taken by the Dakshina Kannada district administration and police department have caused severe disruptions in the supply of red stone and sand across the district, leading to a complete halt in construction activities, said MLA Vedavyas Kamath.

He stated that this situation has created a crisis for laborers, contractors, and the general public, leaving many without work and severely impacting ongoing development projects. Kamath strongly criticized the authorities for the resulting setbacks.