Hubballi: Uttara Karnataka Janashakti Sena UKJS ), a forum, has sought public opinion on separate statehood for North Karnataka and has expressed its reservations for a bandh on August 2.Speaking to reporters here on Tuesday, UKJS founder president S Shankaranna said that organizations that have called for the bandh have not consulted many other organisations and even the public.“There should be an open debate and compilation of opinions. The current call for the bandh is motivated by some politicians who have been involved in selfish politics for decades,” he alleged.He pointed out that no politician has put sincere efforts to complete the Upper Krishna Project and none tried to resolve the Mahadayi river water issue. “Now, politicians irrespective of party affiliations, are silent on police excesses on women, elderly, children that occurred in Navalgund taluk. Though innocent farmers are still fighting legal battles for participating in the Mahadayi agitation, no elected representative has shown concern in this regard,” he added.He alleged that politicians like Vinay Kulkarni, Jagadish Shettar, Pralhad Joshi have failed to complete the BRTS project in Hubballi-Dharwad from six years. “They are busy claiming credit for bringing such projects. When we ask about their completion, they lob the ball into the officials court. Disappointed with the Congress, people supported BJP and voted for Modi. The BJP got Molakalmuru MLA B Sriramulu to battle for separate statehood for North Karnataka, alleging that injustice was done to the region,” said Shankaranna.He also appealed to the people of North Karnataka to be patient until a common opinion emerges over separate statehood.

Stay updated with all the Latest Hubli headlines here. For more exclusive & live news updates from all around India, stay connected with NYOOOZ.