Devara Hipparagi MLA A.S. Patil Nadahalli said that the demand for separate North Karnataka state would be inevitable if the Government continues to neglect the development of backward regions of North and Hyderabad Karnataka region.

He was addressing a media conference at Reporters' Guild here on Sunday.

"We don't want to split the State. We too want a united Karnataka. However, we can no longer tolerate injustice has been historically meted out to North Karnataka region. If the injustice continues, the demand for separate North Karnataka State would get stronger," he said.

Mr. Nadahalli demanded 50 per cent of cabinet berths and chairman posts at state-owned Boards and Corporations to be reserved to North Karnataka region.

"North Karnataka constitutes more than half of State's territory and population. It contributes 90 per cent of State government's electricity generation, yet most of its parts live in darkness. Successive governments exploited rich natural resources it possessed, but neglected its development," he charged.

He announced that a huge rally would be organised from Basavana Bagewadi to Raichur next month to focus on historical injustice meted out to North Karnataka region and force the government to take up special developmental initiatives for the region.

IIT for Raichur

Criticising Chief Minister Siddaramaiah for proposing three cities for the establishment of Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Mr. Nadahalli demanded the Government withdraw the proposal and send a fresh list the premier institute.

"Dr. D.M. Nanjundappa committee report on regional imbalances has clearly recommended to establish IIT in Raichur. The premier institute would change the pathetic educational scenario in Hyderabad Karnataka region. It would greatly help fighting backwardness in the region. Raichur, which is well-connected by air, rail and road and has abundant land and water resources, is ideal place for IIT," he said.

Hyderabad Karnataka Horata Samithi vice president Dr. Razak Ustaad was present.