Bhatkal Eid Meet Highlights Civic Issues, Leaders Criticize Minister’s Absence; Power Outage During HESCOM Chairman’s Speech Sparks Irony
Community voices concern over infrastructure problems as power outage adds to frustrations during public event
Bhatkal: A special Eid Milan and rights awareness program held in Bhatkal brought together officials and residents to discuss pressing civic concerns, but the absence of the district in charge minister drew sharp criticism from local Muslim leaders.
The event was organized on Tuesday night by Majlis Islah wa Tanzeem at Ameena Palace, where senior district officials participated in discussions with the public. However, the non attendance of district in charge minister Mankal S. Vaidya disappointed many, especially community representatives who expected direct engagement from elected leadership.
Tanzeem president Inayatullah Shabandri openly expressed dissatisfaction, stating that skipping such an important public gathering reflects poorly on both the administration and its commitment to the community. He emphasized that leaders responsible for the district should be present to hear and address public grievances firsthand.
During the program, several key civic issues were raised. Speakers highlighted delays in National Highway work, poor drainage systems in areas like Rangenkatta, and slow progress on the 110 KV substation project. Concerns were also raised about the risk of flooding if drainage lines are not cleared before the monsoon season.
District Collector Lakshmi Priya assured attendees that strict instructions have been issued to concerned agencies to complete drainage repairs ahead of the rains.
Superintendent of Police Deepan M N stressed the importance of wearing helmets to reduce road accidents and spoke about tackling drug abuse among youth through the Sun Mitra counseling initiative. District Panchayat CEO Dileesh Sasi underlined the need for cooperation between authorities and community organizations to ensure government schemes reach every household.
Several other officials and leaders addressed the gathering, including HESCOM Chairman Syed Azeem Peer Qadri, Forest Officer Yogesh, Congress leader Rama Moger, and Indian Nawayath Forum president Aftab Kola.
In an unexpected moment during the event, a power outage occurred just as the HESCOM Chairman rose to speak, drawing surprise and ironic reactions from the audience, given the nature of the ongoing discussions about infrastructure and services.
The program began with a recitation from the Quran by Moulana Abdul Aziz Nadwi. General Secretary Abdul Raqeeb M J Nadwi delivered the welcome address, while senior journalist M R Manvi conducted the proceedings. Advocate Syed Imran Lanka concluded the event with a vote of thanks. Former High Court judge Ravi Naik and other senior officials were also present.