Congress to hold 100km padayatra in DK opposing VB-G RAM G

Mangaluru: In opposition to the central govt's changes to the MGNREGS, and the removal of Mahatma Gandhi's name, the Dakshina Kannada District Congress Committee (DCC) will organise a 100 km, 4-day padayatra from Sullia to Mulki from Feb 9 to 12, said DCC president Harish Kumar.He told reporters on Thursday, that deputy chief minister DK Shivakumar, ministers Dinesh Gundu Rao, Santosh Lad, Priyank Kharge, Krishna Byre Gowda, and other prominent leaders will participate on different days in this massive march.The march will commence at 8.30 am on Feb 9, from Gandhinagar in Sullia, proceeding to Kumbra Junction. The next day it will continue from Kumbra to Mani; on Feb 11, from Kalladka to Farangipete; and on Feb 12, from Lalbagh in Mangaluru to Mulki. Harish Kumar informed that all necessary preparations were made.Each day, the march will cover 25-28 kms. It will start at 8.30 am after breakfast, and will continue until 6 pm, with a lunch break at 2 pm. A gathering will be held at the end of each day's march. Congress leaders, workers, and the public will participate in the public meeting. The march aims to raise awareness among the people about the central govt's deceit, he said.MLC Ivan D'Souza said that the central govt hastily implemented the VB-G RAM G Act without proper discussion. He claimed that the govt's intention is to remove Mahatma Gandhi's name from a popular programme and further impoverish the poor. He vowed to continue the struggle until the act is repealed.Former MLA JR Lobo was present.