The district unit of the Karnataka State Panchayat Development Officers (PDOs) Association staged a protest at the deputy commissioner’s office on Thursday, demanding the arrest of those who attacked Jayagouda Patil, PDO of Madamageri Gram Panchayat in Yaragatti taluk, recently. The protesters alleged that officials were trying to shield the accused and raised slogans against them.
They also sought action against the police officers who filed a weak case and reiterated their demand for a separate legal protection act for officers and staff of the Rural Development and Panchayat Raj Department. The protesters said that the PDO was assaulted and threatened after he refused to carry out illegal work.
Despite a case being registered at Murgod Police Station, no arrests have been made so far. District president Anand Holennavar said such violent attacks are recurring and urged the government to take the issue seriously, enact stringent laws, and ensure the safety of officials and staff.
