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Udupi: "If Prime Minister Narendra Modi asks us to ring bells, clap hands, cut down on petrol and diesel consumption, or stop buying gold, we will follow it. Let us practice self-restraint for the sake of the country. But who is responsible for creating such a situation? What precautionary measures are they taking?" questioned District In-charge Minister Lakshmi Hebbalkar.

Speaking to the media in Udupi on Saturday, May 16, she said, "We are seeing in the media how America is controlling our Prime Minister. Let those holding the reins at the Centre speak about what they have achieved."

"Petrol and diesel prices were hiked immediately after the elections concluded. Crude oil prices have not increased at the international level right now. When the government of Dr. Manmohan Singh was in power, they did not burden the common citizens despite a rise in international crude oil prices," she added.

Children's future must be the priority:

"Politics should not be played in the field of education. A positive environment must be created keeping the future of students in mind. I will not comment on the hijab controversy or any other similar issue. Politics must be conducted with the future of children in mind," the minister stated.

High Command's decision:

Regarding the change of Chief Minister or cabinet expansion, the minister stated that the party high command will take a decision and she would not offer any comments on the matter.

Investigation to be ordered:

Addressing allegations that money was collected from anganwadis in Bagalkote, she clarified that no money was collected from any anganwadi. "If money has indeed been collected, strict action will be taken against those responsible, and we will conduct a thorough investigation," the minister assured.

Minister listens to women's grievances

Udupi: Girija Shettigar, an 80-year-old resident of Badagabettu, met District In-charge Minister Lakshmi Hebbalkar on Saturday to seek assistance. She was distressed as she could not construct a house despite being allotted a site by the government 35 years ago, due to clearance hurdles from the Forest Department.

Notably, two Muslim women assisted Girija Shettigar in meeting the minister. After reviewing the application, the minister assured the elderly woman that instructions would be issued to the Deputy Commissioner to arrange the necessary land for her accommodation.