Mangaluru: Karnataka Governor Thawar Chand Gehlot has called for the establishment of well-equipped special physiotherapy units in all primary health centers (PHCs) across the state. He emphasized the importance of physiotherapy as a significant form of medical treatment during his inaugural address at the two-day 'Mangalore Physiocon International Physiotherapy Conference' titled 'Connect to Unlock the Potential of Physiotherapy.' The event was organized by the South Canara Physiotherapy Teachers Association and held at the TMA Pai International Convention Centre in Mangaluru.

Governor Gehlot highlighted that physiotherapy is gaining recognition as a medical treatment that benefits patients both physically and mentally. He also referred to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 'Fit India Movement' and the increasing demand for physiotherapists in orthopedic clinics, hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and sports.

Furthermore, the Governor stressed the importance of incorporating exercise and yoga into physiotherapy sessions, emphasizing their close connection to physical well-being. He discussed his previous focus on empowering differently-abled citizens and providing them with physiotherapeutic treatment during his tenure as the Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment.

Dr. MK Ramesh, Vice-Chancellor of the Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences (RGUHS), who attended the event as the chief guest, advocated for the employment of physiotherapists in every primary health center (PHC). Dr. Ali Irani, Chairman of International Affairs for the Indian Association of Physiotherapists, suggested the formation of a physiotherapy association in the state to enhance healthcare facilities for patients.

Dr. Sanjiv Jha, Chairman of the Indian Association of Physiotherapists, announced plans for the implementation of "One Nation, One Curriculum" in physiotherapy training and the integration of physiotherapy into medical education across India by 2030.

Speaker of the Karnataka Assembly, UT Khader, who presided over the event, echoed the significance of physiotherapy in medical treatment and proposed the establishment of physiotherapy colleges at the district level in the state.

Karnataka Minister for Medical Education, Sharanaprakash Rudrappa Patil, emphasized the role of physiotherapists in reducing physical pain and improving the quality of life for patients, referring to them as champions of hope.

The 'Excellency Achiever's Award' was presented to DA Kalpaja, Chairperson of the Vydehi Institute of Medical Sciences and Research Centre, during the event. Dr. Mohammed Sohail, the program's convener, also addressed the audience, while Dr. UT Ifthikar Ali, the organizing committee chairman, and other office-bearers attended the event.

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Kolkata (PTI): Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee cut short her speech at a rally in her Bhabanipur constituency, alleging that the BJP was deliberately playing loud music from a nearby public meeting.

A peeved Banerjee said despite having the required permission of the Election Commission, her rally in Chakraberia was disrupted by the BJP, "who want to capture Bengal by intimidation and threat".

"It is not possible for me to go ahead with this meeting. If they can do such a thing in my constituency, imagine how undemocratic the BJP is. If they behave like this, I have to take legal action," she said.

"This is an insult, humiliation. BJP is stepping on our toes to instigate trouble. Not possible to address the gathering in this situation. I am leaving the stage. Please vote for me in your protest," she added.

Banerjee was then seen calling someone over and venting her grievances.

Before leaving the stage, she said, "I will hold a rally tomorrow at the same spot."

TMC supporters then rushed towards the BJP rally, which was later addressed by Leader of the Opposition Suvendu Adhikari, but security personnel intervened and prevented the situation from escalating.

TMC workers later staged a demonstration outside the local police station and filed a complaint, alleging that the BJP violated the model code of conduct.

A senior TMC leader said another complaint will also be lodged with the Election Commission.

Asked about Banerjee's allegations, Adhikari told reporters after the rally he held nearby, "Her reaction shows she is nervous about the imminent loss."

"There was no violence, no obstruction in her meeting and her behaviour shows her nervousness. On May 4, people of Bhabanipur will celebrate the victory of the BJP," he claimed, alleging that the TMC also tried to disrupt his meeting by playing loud music.

South Kolkata's Bhabanipur, one of the battleground seats in the West Bengal elections, will vote in the second phase on April 29.