Bhatkal: Yamuna Gaonkara, by declining the Karnataka Rajyotsava award presented by the Uttara Kannada district administration in celebration of Rajyotsava, has demonstrated her unwavering commitment to social activism.

In a letter addressed to the Deputy Commissioner and the Secretaries and Members of the District Award Selection Committee, Yamuna Gaonkara explained that she is deeply involved and committed to communist values. She serves as the District Secretary of the Communist Party of India (Marxist), State Secretary of CITU, a Member of the All India General Council, and actively participates in various roles, including Anganwadi, Akshardasoha, Panchayat, Paur Kaarmik, as well as representing organized and unorganized workers and farm laborers. Furthermore, she serves on the Rule 17 Committee, dedicated to addressing atrocities against SC/ST individuals, chaired by the Deputy Commissioner. She is continuously engaged in the struggle for relief and government interventions to resolve numerous societal issues.

Given her strong organizational affiliations, Yamuna Gaonkara respectfully declined the government's award. She emphasized that she did not apply for any awards and kindly requested the selection committee to choose another deserving individual who has made a significant contribution to society. She also expressed her gratitude for considering her for the award and requested continued support and cooperation for the movement striving to meet the demands of working people.