Former Udupi MLA Concludes Protest as UUDA Approves Land Site Application
Raghupathi Bhat, the former Member of Legislative Assembly from Udupi, has officially withdrawn his indefinite dharna protest that commenced on Monday in front of the Udupi Urban Development Authority office. The protest concluded on Tuesday after the UUDA granted approval for a single site on his land located in Badanidiyoor village.
Two-Year Delay Leads to Public Demonstration
The former BJP legislator, who was subsequently expelled from the party, initiated the protest due to prolonged bureaucratic delays. Bhat had originally submitted an application for single layout approval to the UUDA on March 20, 2024, for his 1.6-acre property in Badanidiyoor village within Udupi taluk. Despite having obtained all necessary permissions for his planned beach resort development project, the UUDA failed to issue the crucial layout approval for over two years.
"I applied for a single site for my land in Badanidiyoor village two years ago," Bhat explained. "The UUDA's policy of delaying approval forced me to begin an indefinite protest against this injustice starting Monday during office hours."
Legal Review Results in Favorable Outcome
The breakthrough came on Tuesday when the UUDA commissioner conducted a comprehensive review of all land documents associated with Bhat's property. Following careful legal consultation with judges, the authority issued the official order granting the single site approval.
"Today, the commissioner of the UUDA reviewed all my land documents, and following legal advice from judges, issued the order for the single site," Bhat stated. "This is a victory for the law and a triumph for proper legal procedure."
Personal Struggle Receives Widespread Support
Bhat acknowledged that while he has participated in numerous social struggles throughout his public life, this marked the first instance where he needed to protest for a personal matter. The former MLA expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support he received during his brief but impactful demonstration.
"During this time, many people supported me with encouraging words over phone and in person," he noted. "Additionally, various organizations from different communities and religions supported my personal struggle. I am grateful to everyone who supported me and extend my gratitude to all the organizations and the people of Udupi."
The resolution of this two-year administrative delay brings closure to a contentious issue that had escalated to public protest, demonstrating how persistent advocacy can overcome bureaucratic obstacles in land development matters.
