Mangaluru: Amidst the controversy revolving around the naming of the Mangaluru International Airport, office bearers of the Veera Rani Abbakka Utsava Samithi on Thursday, demanded that MIA be named after Veera Rani Abbakka, the first Tuluva Queen of Ullal.
During a press meet today, the samithi stated that since its inception in 1997, it has been demanding that the airport be named after the famous Tuluva queen.
While addressing press persons here, samithi president K Jayarama Shetty urged the aviation minister and aviation department to rename the MIA as “Rani Abbakka Airport” as a tribute to the great queen who fought against the Portuguese in the coastal belt.
“Many years ago, the ministry and authorities had been informed about the proposal and we hope that Rani Abbakka’s name will spread throughout the world in this way,” he said, reminding everyone that years ago, resolutions in this regard were passed where stalwarts like Dr D Veerendra Heggade, late Dr Shivaram Karanth, late Kayyara Kinhanna Rai, former CM Veerappa Moily and many others were present.
“We have been urging the Prime Minister, Karnataka Chief Minister, Dakshina Kannada Deputy Commissioner, and others to rename the airport in honour of the great queen. Protests were also held opposite the municipal office, DC’s office etc., apart from press meets and press releases,” he stated.
He expressed disappointment that other names are being considered.
“Veera Rani Abbakka was the first freedom fighter of India and a valiant woman who fought against the Portuguese 450 years ago. She brought people from different categories together and defeated the enemies,” Shetty added, once again urging the government to name the airport after the queen.
Samithi members like Dinakar Ullal, Sadanand Bangera, Hyder Pathripadi and Anand Asaigoli were present.
