Udupi, June 8: Former Lokayukta of Karnataka and retired Supreme Court Judge Justice N. Santosh Hegde was conferred the prestigious Padma Vibhushan George Fernandes Memorial National Award 2025 at a grand ceremony held at Hotel Ocean Pearl, Times Square Building, Kalsanka, Udupi. The event was organized by the Jayashreekrishna Parisara Premi Samiti NGO, with its president Nithyananda Kotian presiding over the function.
Reflecting on the occasion, Justice Hegde said, “During the Emergency, while advocating for several politicians, I had the opportunity to meet George Fernandes. It is a matter of great pride for me to receive an award instituted in his name.” He also lauded the founder of Jayashreekrishna Parisara Premi Samiti, Thonse Jayakrishna Shetty, for his exemplary work in the undivided district.
Justice Hegde expressed concern over the decline of moral and human values in today’s society. “In earlier times, parents and elders invested time to instill moral values in children.
Unfortunately, in the present era of busy lifestyles and working parents, children are missing out on these teachings. Illegal earnings stem from selfishness, but one can earn a good living through legal means as well,” he emphasized. He called for renewed efforts in educating the younger generation about ethics and humanity to prevent them from straying into illegal activities.
District Committee Working President Harish Kumar M Shetty welcomed the gathering, while committee advisor Captain Ganesh Karnik highlighted George Fernandes’ lifelong commitment to social service, stating that Fernandes was a true patriot who transcended caste and creed.
Kota Srinivas Poojary, MP of Udupi Lok Sabha constituency, praised Justice Hegde for his integrity and courage. “Santosh Hegde’s honest and fearless personality has always served as a beacon of hope for society,” he remarked, appreciating the committee’s decision to honor him.Guest of Honour and popular actor Suman Talwar Poojary expressed his happiness in being part of the event. He commended Thonse Jayakrishna Shetty’s dedication to the development of his native place and ensuring George Fernandes’ legacy is remembered by future generations.
State Coordinator K. P. Jagadish Adhikari also shared his sentiments, stating it was an honor to share the stage with Justice Hegde and expressed hope for a better future for the youth.
In his address, Thonse Jayakrishna Shetty stated, “Like George Fernandes, Justice Santosh Hegde is a straightforward and principled individual. This award would have certainly pleased Fernandes’ soul.” He reaffirmed the committee’s commitment to balancing development with environmental protection. Shetty highlighted the committee’s initiatives, including their dialogue with Deputy Chief Minister D. K. Shivakumar about power supply issues in the undivided Dakshina Kannada district, efforts to clean the Netravati River, and the need to bring more industries to the region while maintaining communal harmony.
Nithyananda Kotian, President of the Committee, emphasized the significance of the award during the silver jubilee year of the organization. “This award, named after George Fernandes — a symbol of discipline, honesty, and social service — is a true honor for us. Under the leadership of Thonse Jayakrishna Shetty, our committee has been tirelessly working for the district’s development for 25 years. We seek everyone’s cooperation to continue our journey and make the silver jubilee celebrations a grand success,” he said.
The event was also graced by MLC Ivan D’Souza, honorary general secretary Mundkur Surendra Salian, honorary treasurer Sadananda N Acharya, and several other dignitaries.The programme was seamlessly conducted by Dayasagar Chowta, spokesperson of the committee. The event witnessed the participation of a large number of committee members from Mumbai, local dignitaries, and well-wishers, making it a grand and memorable occasion.
(Content Courtesy : kemmannu.com)
