Riyadh: Social worker, Pro-bono lawyer & NRI community activist, Dr. & Adv. P.A. Hameed Padubidri, based in Riyadh extended his heartfelt congratulations to Karnataka’s newly elected Chief Minister Shri D.K. Shivakumar and welcomed his announcement regarding the establishment of a separate ministry for NRKs (Non-Resident Kannadigas).
Dr. Hameed stated that the announcement has brought great happiness and renewed hope among lakhs of Kannadigas residing abroad, especially in Gulf countries, who have long contributed significantly to Karnataka’s economy through remittances and investments.
He pointed out that NRKs continue to face several issues, including lack of proper government representation, rehabilitation challenges, legal and documentation difficulties, commercial, civil and criminal cases including jail imprisonments abroad, labour-related grievances, healthcare and insurance concerns, and the absence of dedicated welfare mechanisms for expatriate families.
“The Chief Minister’s vision of creating a separate ministry for NRKs is highly appreciated. This is a historic and much-needed step towards addressing the long-pending concerns of overseas Kannadigas,” Dr. Hameed said.
He urged the Karnataka Government led by Shri D.K. Shivakumar to immediately initiate concrete measures including establishment of necessary infrastructure, allocation of sufficient funds, introduction of welfare schemes, grievance redressal systems and appointment of a dedicated minister to oversee the affairs of NRKs.
He further emphasized the importance of creating district-level NRI facilitation centres, legal aid cells, emergency helplines, investment support desks including rehabilitation programs for returning expatriates; he stated that such initiatives would strengthen the bond between overseas Kannadigas and their home state while encouraging greater investment and participation in Karnataka’s development.
He additionally reiterated that Dr. Arathi Krishna be appointed as the minister in charge of this proposed portfolio, who is real instrumental behind this initiative, considering her active involvement, accessibility and commitment towards the welfare of overseas Kannadigas.
Dr. Hameed concluded by expressing confidence that the Karnataka Government under the leadership of Shri D.K. Shivakumar would take historic steps to empower and uplift the NRK community and address their long-pending concerns with sincerity and urgency.
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