Cong confused over candidates in Puttur, Surathkal, Kaup

[email protected] (CD Network)
April 14, 2013
Mangalore, Apr 14: With just 20 days left for the Assembly elections in the state, the Congress party still appears vexed over which candidates to field from three of the constituencies in the twin districts, namely Kaup in Udupi district, Puttur and Suratkal in Dakshina Kannada.

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When candidates have been involved in tug-of-war with regard to getting a ticket in four categories to contest from these three prestigious constituencies, the Congress is in a fix over the selection of its candidates.

The party high command's indecisiveness over the selection of candidates for these constituencies and keeping them in the blue has attracted the ire of most Congress members. The confusion over this has become more problematic with aspirants for these constituencies continuously vying for a ticket under the quota for Billawas, Bunts, minorities and women.

Former minister Vasant Salian and businessman Suresh Shetty Gurme are strong contenders vying for the ticket from the constituency of Kaup. Also in the race for the ticket are Kaup Diwakar Shetty from Bunts' community, Y Sukumar from Billawas, former Congress district president M A Gafoor from minority community, Sarasu D Bangera under women's quota and Harish Kini on behalf of Youth Congress.

In the constituency of Puttur, former MLA Shakuntala Shetty and K Hemanath Shetty are vying for a ticket with the party high command, whereas in Suratkal former MLA Vijaykumar Shetty, Moidin Bava from minorities and Kripa Amar Alva under women's quota are strong contenders. Apart from these, former MP Vinay Kumar Sorake was vying for a ticket from any one constituency out of the three.

As majority of the voters in Kaup, Puttur and Suratkal constituencies belonged to Bunt, Billawa and minority communities, Congress now faces a serious dilemma over selection of suitable candidates, owing to the several aspirants vying for a ticket in each constituency. Extreme caution is undertaken about selection of candidates, as one wrong move could thereafter affect the party's chances of winning in each of the 13 constituencies in the undivided Dakshina Kannada.

If a candidate is chosen from the Bunt community in Puttur, then Billawa and minority candidates have a shot in Suratkal and Kaup. The opposite also holds true for these constituencies. However, members campaigning for the Congress in Kaup, Puttur and Suratkal are in a fix as the candidates have not yet been decided. Unless candidates are finalised, party campaigning cannot begin in these constituencies. Even when the list of suitable candidates has been prepared, it needs to be finalised by Congress president Sonia Gandhi herself.

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News Network
December 15,2025

Mangaluru police have arrested a 27-year-old NRI on his return from Saudi Arabia in connection with an Instagram post allegedly containing derogatory and provocative remarks about the Hindu religion, officials said on Monday.

The accused, Abdul Khader Nehad, a resident of Ulaibettu in Mangaluru, was working in Saudi Arabia when the post was uploaded, police said.

A suo motu case was registered at the Bajpe police station on October 11 after an allegedly offensive post circulated from the Instagram account ‘team_sdpi_2025’. Police said the content was flagged for being provocative and derogatory in nature.

During the investigation, technical analysis traced the Instagram post to Nehad, who was residing abroad at the time, a senior police officer said. Based on these findings, a Look Out Circular (LOC) was issued against him.

On December 14, Nehad arrived from Saudi Arabia at Calicut International Airport in Kerala, where he was taken into custody on arrival. Police said further investigation is underway.

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News Network
December 17,2025

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Melkar, Dec 17: The 17th Annual Day and Graduation Ceremony of Melkar Women’s PU and Degree College, themed “Fusion-2K25,” was celebrated with dignity and enthusiasm, marking a significant milestone in the institution’s academic journey. The programme reflected the college’s steadfast commitment to academic excellence, character building, and the holistic development of students.

The event was inaugurated by Mr. Asif Mohammed, whose presence greatly enriched the occasion. The celebration was further graced by the chief guests Mr. P. B. Ahmed Mudassir and Mr. Nissar Fakeer Mohammed, along with the distinguished guests of honour Mr. B. A. Nazeer and Mr. Ibrahim Gadiyar. In their inspiring addresses, the guests encouraged the graduating students and appreciated the dedicated efforts of the management, faculty, and students.

The annual report was presented by the Principal, Mr. Abdul Majeed S, highlighting the institution’s academic progress, notable achievements, and extracurricular accomplishments during the academic year.

The presidential address was delivered by the esteemed Chairman of Melkar Women’s PU and Degree College, Dr. Haji S. M. Rasheed, who emphasized the vital role of education in empowering women and shaping responsible citizens. He also stressed the importance of discipline, dedication, and perseverance in achieving success.

Cultural programmes and academic recognitions formed an integral part of the celebration, showcasing the talents and achievements of the students. The graduation ceremony was a proud moment for the outgoing students as they were formally conferred degrees and wished success in their future endeavours.

Ms. Mashmooma Fathima served as the Master of Ceremonies. The welcome address was delivered by Ms. Fathima Nida, and the programme concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by Ms. Ayisha Suhana.

The event successfully achieved its objectives and was highly appreciated by the guests and attendees.

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News Network
December 16,2025

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Melkar (Bantwal): The 9th Annual Day celebration of SMR Public School, titled “EXCELLENTIA”, was held on December 15 with great enthusiasm and dignity, marking a significant milestone in the institution’s journey towards academic excellence and holistic development.

The programme was inaugurated by Dr. U. T. Iftikar Ali. The chief guests were Dr. Akhtar Hussain, Mr. P. Moosabba Beary, Mr. Zakaria Jokattre, and Dr. T. M. Abdul Rahuf—whose inspiring addresses motivated the students and appreciated the school’s contributions to education.

Mr. Abdul Nasir, Mr. Ibrahim Gadiyar, Mr. Razak Golthamajal, Mr. Sali Koya, Mr. Arshad Hussain, Mr. Ismail Balanoor, Mr. Feroz Bawa, Mr. Sahul Hameed, Mr. Abubakkar, Mr. Hameed K. Mani, Mr. Abdul Majeed (Principal, Melkar Women’s College), and Mr. Abdul Lathief (Former Principal, Melkar Women’s College) were the guests of honour.

The Annual Report was presented by the Headmistress, Ms. Fathimathul Zaheera, highlighting the school’s achievements and progress during the academic year. The Presidential Address was delivered by the Chairman of SMR Public School, Dr. Haji S. M. Rasheed, who emphasised the vital role of education in shaping students’ futures and stressed the importance of discipline, dedication, and consistent effort in achieving 100 per cent academic results.

Secretary of SMR Public School, Mr. Rifath Ahmed, and PTA President, Mr. Sandeep Kumar, were also present on the occasion.

The Annual Day celebration showcased the collective efforts of students and teachers and reaffirmed the school’s commitment to quality education and all-round development. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to all dignitaries, parents, and well-wishers for their support. The 9th Annual Day—EXCELLENTIA—was a memorable and successful event, leaving a lasting impression on everyone present. 

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