Mankal Vaidya receives grand welcome in Bhatkal after being elected Assembly Deputy Speaker

Bhatkal: Celebrations were held in Bhatkal after Bhatkal MLA Mankal S. Vaidya was elected Deputy Speaker of the Karnataka Legislative Assembly.

Vaidya, who arrived in Bhatkal from Bengaluru on Tuesday night after his election, received a grand welcome at the Shiruru toll gate on the Bhatkal taluk border.

Congress leaders and workers, representatives of various organisations, supporters and well-wishers gathered in large numbers to welcome him. Hundreds of people greeted Vaidya with flower garlands and bouquets amid cheers. Supporters also distributed sweets to mark the occasion.

Congress leaders and workers said Vaidya's election to the important post of Deputy Speaker was a matter of pride for the Bhatkal-Honnavar constituency and Uttara Kannada district.

As Deputy Speaker, Vaidya will have the important responsibility of assisting in conducting the proceedings of the Legislative Assembly in accordance with the rules and ensuring the smooth functioning of the House. His elevation to the panel of presiding officers of the Assembly has also drawn attention in the political circles of the district.

Vaidya has established his presence in the politics of the Bhatkal-Honnavar constituency. He has served as Zilla Panchayat vice-president and MLA and has focused on development works in the constituency.

After winning the 2023 Assembly election as a Congress candidate, he served in the state government as Minister for Fisheries, Ports and Inland Water Transport.