Bhatkal: The Political Panel of Majlis-e-Islah wa Tanzeem, Bhatkal, organized a one-day workshop on Municipal Administration and Local Governance at Ameena Palace on Monday. The event brought together youth from various parts of Bhatkal and nearby areas, along with councillors, panchayat members, and social activists, as per a report by the Sahil Online News.
The keynote address was delivered by Abrar Ahmed, Councillor of Chamarajanagar City Municipal Council, Bengaluru, who emphasized the responsibilities of local representatives and the significance of citizen participation in governance. He highlighted that Karnataka’s municipal laws, framed post-independence, have played a vital role in strengthening the system. He also noted that the upcoming national census would likely lead to the upgradation of several Gram Panchayats and Municipal Councils.
Encouraging active public involvement, Mr. Ahmed urged citizens to participate in local elections and civic duties. He also stressed the importance of learning Kannada, calling it essential for effective engagement in administrative work. He remarked that male councillors should serve like fathers to their wards and female councillors like mothers, treating community issues as family concerns.
Advocate Syed Imran Lanka, Convener of the Political Panel and Vice President of Jali Pattan Panchayat, addressed challenges in local governance, while interactive sessions with youth and activists focused on civic amenities, accountability, and political participation.
The program began with a Qur’an recitation by Maulavi Mohammed Hussain Jukaku. Abdur Raqeeb MJ Nadvi, General Secretary of Tanzeem, delivered the welcome address, and Inayatullah Shahbandri, President of Tanzeem, presided over the session.
Dignitaries present included Muhiddin Altaf Kharuri, In-charge President of Bhatkal Town Municipality, and Maulana Wasiullah DF Nadvi, President of Bhatkal Muslim Youth Federation, among others.
