Minister MB Patil seeks industry leaders' support in Wayanad landslide relief efforts
Bengaluru, Aug 10: In the wake of devastating landslides in Wayanad in neighbouring Kerala, which claimed over two hundred lives and left several people missing, Karnataka Minister MB Patil has appealed to industry leaders and corporations across Karnataka to extend their support for the relief and rehabilitation efforts.
In a letter addressed to industry leaders, Minister for Large and Medium Industries and Infrastructure Development Patil expressed his gratitude for their ongoing contributions to the industrial growth of Karnataka.
In a statement shared by the Minister's office, he highlighted the catastrophic loss resulting from the recent landslides, which have ravaged approximately 310 hectares of agricultural land, devastating the livelihoods of thousands of families in the affected regions of Mundakkai, Chooralmala, Attamala, and Meppadi. The disaster has left many without shelter, food, or basic necessities, he added.
The Minister has urged the industrial sector to come forward and contribute generously to the ongoing relief operations led by the Government of Kerala.
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He emphasised the critical need for immediate rescue efforts, provision of essential supplies, and long-term rehabilitation initiatives. These include rebuilding homes, restoring agricultural lands, reconstructing schools and other essential infrastructure, providing livelihood support, and ensuring access to healthcare for those affected.
"This is a crucial time for us to come together and reaffirm our shared commitment to the welfare of our fellow citizens. By joining hands, we can help restore hope and rebuild lives in Wayanad," the Minister stated in his appeal.
He further noted that the contributions from industries would not only align with their corporate values but also make a significant impact on the lives of those affected by this unprecedented disaster.
The Minister has directed industries to coordinate with Gunjan Krishna, Commissioner for Industrial Development, for any clarifications or assistance regarding their contributions.
Patil said that in times of such humanitarian crises, the spirit of humanity must prevail above all else.
"This call to action underscores the Karnataka government's commitment to supporting its neighbouring state in overcoming the aftermath of this natural calamity," he stated.
At least 226 people died and many remain unaccounted for after landslides hit the region on July 30 in what is seen as one of the biggest natural disasters to have impacted the southern state.
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Sanjay Raut demands re-election, alleges irregularities in EVMs during Maharashtra polls
Mumbai, Nov 25: Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut on Monday demanded a re-election in Maharashtra using ballot papers, claiming there were irregularities with the electronic voting machines (EVMs).
Talking to reporters, Raut alleged several complaints about EVMs malfunctioning and questioned the integrity of the recently held elections.
The BJP-led Mahayuti won 230 out of 288 seats in the assembly elections, while the opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi managed 46 seats, with Shiv Sena (UBT) winning just 20 out of 95 seats it contested.
"We have received nearly 450 complaints regarding EVMs. Despite raising objections repeatedly, no action has been taken on these issues. How can we say these elections were conducted fairly? Hence, I demand that the results be set aside and elections be held again using ballot papers," Raut said.
Citing some instances, he said a candidate in Nashik reportedly received only four votes despite having 65 votes from his family, while in Dombivli, discrepancies were found in EVM tallies, and election officials refused to acknowledge the objections.
The Sena (UBT) leader also questioned the credibility of the landslide victories of some candidates, saying, "What revolutionary work have they done to receive more than 1.5 lakh votes? Even leaders who recently switched parties have become MLAs. This raises suspicions. For the first time, a senior leader like Sharad Pawar has expressed doubts about EVMs, which cannot be ignored."
Asked about the MVA's poor performance in the elections, Raut rejected the idea of blaming a single individual.
"We fought as a united MVA. Even a leader like Sharad Pawar, who commands immense respect in Maharashtra, faced defeat. This shows that we need to analyse the reasons behind the failure. One of the reasons is EVM irregularities and the misuse of the system, unconstitutional practices, and even judicial decisions left unresolved by Justice Chandrachud," he said.
Raut stressed that though internal differences might have existed within the MVA, the failure was collective.
He also accused the Mahayuti of conducting the elections in an unfair manner.
"I cannot call the elections fair given the numerous reports of discrepancies in EVMs, mismatched numbers, and vote irregularities across the state," Raut said.
