The Bearys Chamber of Commerce and Industries (BCCI) hosted a grand felicitation event for MLC Ivan D'Souza on Saturday, 6th July 2024, at the Ocean Pearl Hotel in the city. The event celebrated D'Souza's election to the Karnataka Legislative Council for a second term.

The program commenced with a welcome speech by BCCI General Secretary Mohammed Imthiyaz.

Haji SM Abdul Rasheed, the chairman of BCCI presided over the event and urged support from Muslim communities from across the region to BCCI as it works towards economic upliftment of Muslims.

He presented a detailed report on the organization's achievements and outlined ambitious plans for expanding BCCI's presence in various countries.

Imthiyaz emphasized the importance of unity and collaboration within the Muslim business community, drawing parallels with the Gujarati community, known for their strong business acumen and cooperative spirit. He highlighted that the Beary and Navayath communities, renowned for their trading skills, must work together to achieve greater success. He warned that selfishness and lack of cooperation could harm the community's economic prospects.

He further elaborated on the BCCI's significant role in supporting entrepreneurs and businesses within the community. Imthiyaz noted that the organization has successfully helped numerous entrepreneurs establish their ventures across the country and globally, contributing to the economic growth of the community.

Following the felicitation ceremony, MLC Ivan D'Souza addressed the gathering. He began by reflecting on the transient nature of political power, stressing that those elected to positions of authority must remain mindful of the sentiments and emotions of the people they represent. D'Souza urged politicians to adhere to principles of social and community work to earn and maintain respect in political circles.

D'Souza emphasized that the power of the people is the only permanent force, noting that elected officials can easily be replaced if they fail to serve their constituents effectively. He spoke candidly about the challenges of political life, likening it to a mountain that appears smooth from a distance but is challenging to navigate up close.

Reflecting on his political journey, D'Souza highlighted his accomplishments during his first term, including maintaining a perfect attendance record, for which he received commendation from the government at the time. He pledged to continue serving humanity and his constituents with dedication.

D'Souza also discussed various projects he has been involved in and shared his vision for future initiatives. He expressed gratitude to the BCCI for the honor and reassured the audience that the Siddaramaiah-led government in Karnataka is committed to the development of all sectors and communities in the state.

In his presidential address, Haji SM Abdul Rasheed praised MLC Ivan D'Souza for his service and thanked him for attending the event on short notice. He highlighted the simplicity with which D'Souza and his family lead their lives, always willing to help and serve the community. Rasheed also discussed the BCCI's future plans and expansion strategies.

The event began with a recitation of the Quran by Hafiz Hasan Asheeq Abdullah, followed by a welcome speech by Haji Mumtaz Ali Krishnapura. The ceremony concluded with a vote of thanks by BCCI General Secretary Mohammed Imthiyaz, marking the end of a memorable and inspiring event. Abdul Jaleel Krishnapura, nominated member to Mangaluru Urban Development Authority (MUDA), was also felicitated in the event.

Vice-president Zakariya Jokatte, Office bearer Sheikh Karnire, Secretary Ashraf Karnire, Joint secretary Nisar Mohammed Fakeer and treasurer Mansoor Ahmed, Abdulla Monu Moideen Qatar, Asif Home Plus were present.

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Chikkamagaluru: Around 150 families from the Shillekytha fishing community (Scheduled Caste) in Menasuru Ravuru Camp, located near the backwaters of the Bhadra River in NR Pura Taluk, have reportedly been living without a burial ground for nearly two decades.

As a result, they are forced to bury their dead in an islet located a few kilometers away, often using traditional coracles to transport the bodies for the last rites, as reported by The New Indian Express on Friday.

One community member shared the struggles they face, particularly during the monsoon season. “We find water as we start digging a pit. We cover the pit with leaves to prevent water from seeping in before burying the body there,” TNIE quoted him as saying.

During summer months, when the Bhadra backwaters recede, the community members resort to burying bodies along the shore. However, even these temporary solutions come with their own challenges. In some cases, families have had to reuse burial spots where previous bodies were laid to rest.

Repeated appeals to local authorities, including the gram panchayat, taluk administration, local MLA, and other elected representatives, for a burial ground, housing, electricity, and other basic amenities have reportedly gone unanswered.

Meanwhile, a local leader stated that the members of the Shillekytha fishing community are nomads, frequently moving from place to place. He added that this nomadic lifestyle is the reason why the community has been deprived of basic amenities, including access to a burial ground and essential services.