Committee seeking exclusive corporation for Dharwad plans black flag protest against Joshi

The Separate Corporation for Dharwad Agitation Committee has warned of intensifying its agitation demanding the creation of an exclusive municipal council for Dharwad if BJP leaders, including Union Minister Pralhad Joshi, try to create hurdles in the way of bifurcation of the Hubballi-Dharwad Municipal Corporation (HDMC).

Addressing a press conference in Dharwad on Monday, president of the agitation committee Venkatesh Machakanur said that although the State government sent a notification for the creation of Dharwad municipal corporation to the Raj Bhavan for the Governor’s approval a month ago, it has not been approved till date.

Mr. Machakanur said that when the State Cabinet approved the bifurcation of Hubballi-Dharwad Municipal Corporation and formation of an exclusive corporation for Dharwad, BJP leaders have claimed it to be the result of their efforts and even erected large banners in the city. But, now, it is being said that Union Minister Pralhad Joshi has raised objections with the Governor in a bid to block the final notification.

He even accused councillor Iresh Anchatageri, who is a former Mayor, of being behind such efforts by providing incorrect information about the area and revenue collection of Dharwad.

Secretary of the committee Ravikumar Maliger said that the Union Minister and BJP MLAs should press for the Governor’s approval for the final notification. And, if approval for the proposal is delayed, then, the committee will be forced to stage black flag protest against BJP leaders and Mr. Joshi during their visit to Dharwad.

He also said that consultative meetings will be held with writers, traders and representatives of various organisations to deliberate further on the issue and also on whether to call for a Dharwad bandh.