Sullia: The horrific landslides that followed after a cloud burst at Jodupalu in Sullia has devastated the region, but the catastrophic event has brought together two organizations that nurture contradicting ideologies.

Bajarang Dal and the SKSSF joined hands together to rebuilt the scarred Jodupalu and addressing a joint news conference on Monday, Manohar Kallugundi of the BD and Tajuddin Tarli of the SKSSF said that the differences attributed to caste, creed and class were all flushed away by them as they came forward to help the distressed families.

The leaders said that 16 youth from both the organizations collaborated and saved at least 450 lives. Kallagundi said that a volunteer named Bipin who toiled relentlessly in the region was severely injured, but none came forward to even inquire about his health. However, KPCC Secretary Venkappa Gowda came forward to extend monetary aid of Rs 10,000 to Bipin. The leaders have demanded the state to come forward and help the affected families as the entire region needs to be rebuilt.

16 rescue members to be felicitated

Without fearing for life, 16 youth had jumped in to rescue work and saved the lives of affected people at Jodupalu. They will be felicitated by Thekkila Pratishthana soon. Several policemen too will be feted during the occasion for their service.

Meanwhile, hopes galore as Union Minister Sadananda Gowda, who had visited the spot recently assured of immediate sanctions from the Central government for rebuilding the region. He has also said that a plea would be submitted to the President of India in this regard.

KPCC Secretary T M Shahid, leaders P S Sullia, P S Gangadhar and others were present at the press meet.