Belagavi, 16 Feb

Karnataka Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao said on Monday that the situation in Dakshina Kannada district has vindicated his cabinet colleague Priyank Kharge’s view that communal tension has discouraged companies from investing in the region.

Rao, who is the Dakshina Kannada district in-charge Minister, said conditions have improved following a series of government measures aimed at maintaining communal harmony.

“What Priyank Kharge said is right. If the situation improves, more people will come to Dakshina Kannada district,” Rao told reporters here.

IT and Biotechnology Minister Priyank Kharge had said that the communal atmosphere was a deterrent to investments in Dakshina Kannada district.

Rao said the government has taken several steps to improve the situation there.

Rao noted that the state government is laying emphasis on tourism and the Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and his deputy DK Shivakumar had visited coastal Karnataka and inaugurated a day-long workshop.

The Minister said new Memoranda of Understanding were signed and approval granted to build five star hotels in Mangaluru.

Dismissing speculation of any leadership tussle in the ruling party, the Minister said the party remained united.