Tue Jun 03 05:06:22 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary of the text followed by a news article based on it:

**Summary:**

Belagavi MP Jagadish Shettar is under fire for accusing environmental activists protesting against Mahadayi basin projects in Karnataka of being “agents of the Goa government.” Activists are demanding a public apology, calling his statement an attack on their integrity and their decades-long commitment to environmental protection. They highlight the activists’ respected status and contributions. A protest rally organized by the “Save Water, Save Western Ghats” movement is planned in Belagavi on June 3rd, joined by young climate activist Ridhima Pandey.

**News Article:**

**Karnataka MP Faces Backlash for Calling Activists ‘Goa Agents’**

**Belagavi, June 3, 2025:** Belagavi MP Jagadish Shettar is facing intense criticism and calls for a public apology after branding environmental activists protesting the Mahadayi basin projects in Karnataka as “agents of the Goa government.” The accusation has sparked outrage among the environmental community, who see it as a direct attack on their dedication and integrity.

Prominent activist Sujit Mulgund condemned Shettar’s statement as “shameful” and a “deliberate attack on truth, dignity, and the democratic voice of the people.” Mulgund emphasized that the activists, including Colonel Ravindra Saini, Captain Nitin Dhond, Nyla Coelho, and Sharada Gopal, are respected members of the Belagavi community who have worked tirelessly to protect the environment for decades. He noted they have received awards and recognition from various governments for their contributions.

“These are not outsiders. They are the soul of Belagavi,” Mulgund stated. “They have protected our land without asking for votes or power.”

The “Save Water, Save Western Ghats” movement is organizing a protest rally in Belagavi today in response to the controversy and to continue raising awareness about the Mahadayi basin projects. Activist Raju Topannanavar asserted the rally is purely for environmental concerns and not driven by political motives or external influence.

Adding further weight to the demonstration, 17-year-old climate activist Ridhima Pandey, known for her legal battles against government inaction on climate change and her participation in a lawsuit against five countries at the United Nations, will be joining the rally. Pandey’s presence underscores the growing national and international attention on the environmental issues in Karnataka.

The controversy highlights the growing tensions between development projects and environmental protection in the region, with activists accusing Shettar of attempting to deflect attention from “illegal deforestation, ecological destruction, and political nexus with land-grabbing interests.” The situation remains tense, and the outcome of today’s rally and Shettar’s response are being closely watched.

Read More