Dharwad: “Chief Minister Siddaramaiah should immediately take back the letter written to HRD ministry and PM to set up the IIT in Raichur instead of Dharwad, which has been chosen by the Centre for the premier institution”, said Yogakshema Vedike president and former MLA Chandrakanth Bellada.

Speaking at a press meet, Bellada said, “If an IIT comes up then it is not limited only to Dharwad, but it is related to the whole nation. So, considering the people of the nation and the state, CM should immediately take back the letter written to the centre”, he added.

Dharwad, Raichur and Mysuru districts were suggested for the setting up of an IIT centre in the state. The central team submitted a report saying that Dharwad would be a better option among the three. “It is a gift given by Centre to the state. State government should make sure that it will not be missed. It is not known as to who has pressurised the CM to write a letter favouring Raichur. It is not a right move”, Bellada said.

Manoja Pateela, Basavaraj Vibhuthi and Mohana Ramadurga were present at the meet.