Eid Harmony Meet in Bhatkal

Civic issues, development concerns discussed at Bhatkal Eid gathering by Tanzeem

Bhatkal: A wide range of civic and development matters concerning the town were discussed at the Eid harmony meet organised by Majlise Islah Wa Tanzeem at Amina Palace on Tuesday night, where senior district officials interacted with citizens and community representatives.

District Collector K. Lakshmi Priya, addressing the gathering, said instructions had already been issued to complete drainage-related works before the onset of the monsoon. Referring to reported measles cases in the town, she appealed to residents to ensure vaccination and cooperate with health authorities.

Superintendent of Police Deepan M.N. stressed the need for compulsory helmet use to reduce road accidents. He also explained the police department’s “Sanmitra” counselling programme meant to address the growing issue of substance abuse among youngsters.

Zilla Panchayat Chief Executive Officer Dileesh Sasi said active public participation was necessary for successful implementation of government welfare schemes. He urged organisations to help remove misunderstandings surrounding education and health programmes.

Earlier, presiding over the programme, Tanzeem president Inayatullah Shabandri raised several local concerns. He referred to the delay in National Highway work, inadequate drainage arrangements in Ranginkatte and other areas, and the risk of flooding during the rainy season. He also called upon HESCOM to speed up the 110 KV substation project and address frequent power disruptions during festival periods.

Others who addressed the function included HESCOM chairman Syed Azeem Peer Khadri, Deputy Conservator of Forests Yogesh, Congress leader Rama Mogher, and Indian Navayath Forum president Aftab Kola.

The programme began with Quran recitation by Tanzeem finance secretary Maulana Azizur Rahman Nadvi. General secretary Abdul Rakheeb M.J. welcomed the audience and presented the introductory remarks. Senior journalist M.R. Manvi compered the event, while advocate Syed Imran Lanka delivered the vote of thanks.

Retired High Court judge Ravi Naik, municipal commissioner Baba Saheb Mane, tahsildar Nagendra Kolashetti, officials from various departments and leading personalities from different communities were present.

The absence of minister Mankal S. Vaidya from the programme drew criticism from some Muslim leaders.

Speaking at the event, the Tanzeem president said it was disappointing that elected representatives holding responsibility for the district did not attend such an important social gathering, adding that the absence had caused concern within the community.