Date:23/12/2005 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2005/12/23/stories/2005122307020300.htm

Karnataka - Bellary

Gandhian for formation of `Vishala Karnataka'

Staff Correspondent

`The Government should make efforts to bring together all Kannada-speaking areas'

BELLARY: H.S. Doreswamy, Gandhian and freedom fighter, has underlined the need to make efforts to bring together all Kannada-speaking areas and form "Vishala Karnataka."

He was speaking after inaugurating a symposium, "Naalina Karnataka" (Tomorrow's Karnataka), organised here on Monday by Kannada University at Hampi as part of its 14th "Nudihabba" (convocation).

Mr. Doreswamy was of the view that either by persuasion or through a struggle, the Kannada-speaking areas should be brought together to realise the long-cherished dream of "Vishala Karnataka."

Referring to the demand by a section of people to merge Belgaum and other Marathi-speaking areas with Maharashtra, Mr. Doreswamy said such a demand is a due to economic and educational underdevelopment.

He urged the Government to take steps to develop these areas to ensure that they continue to be part of the State.

He expressed displeasure over information technology and biotechnology firms in the State not giving priority to Kannadigas in employment.

He also said that the recommendations of the Sarojini Mahishi Committee with regard to jobs for Kannadigas is not being implemented in full.

Commending the efforts of Lokayukta N. Venkatachala in eradicating corruption, he criticised the State Government for not giving him (Mr. Venkatachala) due encouragement.

Mr. Doreswamy also expressed his opposition to the mining of natural resources, particularly in Bellary district. He said such activities will severely affect the ecological balance.

K. Raghavendra Rao, political scientist, said globalisation has only benefited a few, while the Gandhian economy would help everyone.

Stating that the globalisation has been adopted under pressure, Prof. Rao said that societies that have given priority to agriculture have developed economically.

Prof. Radha Krishna also spoke.

B.A. Vivek Rai, Vice-Chancellor of Hampi University, presided over the symposium.