Bhatkal: In an attempt to get his shop from the TMC, Ramachandra Naik from Asarkeri here had set himself ablaze inside TMC office and later died at a hospital a few weeks ago. A visit was paid by the district In-charge Minister R V Deshpande to Ramachandra's house on 24th September, Sunday to offer his condolences to his family.
Some other shop owners were also present at the occasion and they informed the minister about the whole situation at the TMC and how some shops were auctioned by them for over Rs. 1 lakh. Deshpande expressed his views stating that it is wrong to auction for such huge rent amounts after receiving down payment of Rs. 10,000.
He then handed over a packet containing money to Ramachandra's mother and another packet to his brother stating that it was collected from some people for them. Although the minister or the family did not disclose about the amount, some sources say that each packet consisted of Rs. 1 lakh.
Later, the minister addressed the media persons and said that people must not take such extreme actions in a fit of rage as it is not a solution to any kind of problem. He further said that there must be unity, brotherhood and peace among people. Everything must be done in a legal way following all the laws and restrictions. The government will also try to consider their needs and help them respectively.
MLA Mankal Vaidya, ZP president Jaishree Moger, Bhatkal Assistant Commissioner M N Manjunath, Belke Congress president Vittal Naik, ZP member Sandhu Bhaskar Naik and others were present on this occassion.