Gulf Retirees Association Karnataka raises returnee issues in high-level meetings
Bengaluru: The Gulf Retirees Association Karnataka, under the leadership of former NRI Shahul Hameed, met with Arathi Krishna, Deputy Chairperson of the Karnataka State NRI Forum, at her office in Vikas Soudha to discuss the challenges faced by Gulf returnees.
The meeting included a detailed interaction with individuals who had spent several years working across Gulf countries and have since returned to Karnataka. Discussions centered on a range of pressing concerns, including financial instability, employment challenges, social reintegration, healthcare access, and educational needs.
The Association highlighted the acute financial difficulties experienced by many returnees, noting that despite decades of overseas employment, a significant number return without adequate financial planning or viable job opportunities. This mismatch between their experience and available employment has led to widespread economic insecurity.
Social isolation and health-related concerns were also raised. The lack of access to affordable healthcare and social support has contributed to the struggles faced by many returnees. In response, the Association has undertaken various initiatives, including awareness programs, health camps, and counselling services to aid in the reintegration process.
The Association urged the Karnataka State NRI Forum to take concrete steps toward policy intervention and support mechanisms tailored to Gulf returnees. A formal memorandum outlining these concerns and proposed solutions was also submitted to L.K. Atheeq, Chief Secretary to the Chief Minister, at his office in Bengaluru.
Distinguished Toastmaster Shameer Ahmed, himself a former NRI, conveyed his best wishes to the Forum and assured his continued support for future initiatives aimed at improving the lives of returnees.
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Karnataka: Shop owner killed after dispute over payment for cigarette
Belagavi (Karnataka) (PTI): A dispute allegedly triggered by alcohol consumption turned fatal following an argument over payment for a cigarette, claiming the life of a shop owner in the district, police said on Wednesday.
The incident occurred on Tuesday night, when four intoxicated youth allegedly assaulted a shop owner after he demanded payment for a cigarette, leading to his death, they added.
The deceased has been identified as Yallappa Durgappa Naik (48), the owner of a provision store.
According to police, the accused—residents of Kadoli village—had attended a fair and were returning in an inebriated state when they stopped at Naik’s shop to purchase a cigarette.
An argument reportedly broke out when Naik insisted on payment, following which the youth allegedly assaulted him.
He sustained severe injuries and succumbed while being shifted to a hospital, a senior police officer said.
Acting swiftly, Kakati police arrested all four accused within half an hour of the incident, the officer added.
The accused have been identified as Prajjwal Patil, Nikhil Chougale, Vivek Chougale and Shridhar Patil.
A case has been registered, and further investigation is underway, police said.
