Actor-Activist Chethan Ahimsa to Launch New Political Party in Karnataka; Slams Bidadi Township Plan

⁠By Political Bureau, Bangalore Mail⁠

MANGALURU: Actor-turned-activist Chethan Ahimsa has officially announced plans to launch a new regional political party in Karnataka. Aimed at bringing together grassroots activists, social movement leaders, and public organizers, the upcoming outfit intends to offer a constitutional, people-centric alternative to the state’s current political landscape.

Speaking to reporters during a visit to Mangaluru, Chethan emphasized that active political intervention has become necessary to challenge systemic governance lapses and defend public interests.

“Governments that are deaf and blind only wake up when they realize their power is slipping. Karnataka needs a genuine solution and an alternative rooted in equality, social justice, and constitutional values,” Chethan stated.

Hubballi State Convention Planned for January

The registration process for the new political outfit is currently underway, according to Chethan. He noted that the party’s official name will reflect its core principles of equality, justice, and state welfare.

To prepare for the formal launch, organizing teams are holding statewide preliminary meetings across districts, including Dakshina Kannada and Udupi. The party will be officially unveiled during a massive state convention scheduled to take place in Hubballi in January.

Chethan asserted that national parties driven from Delhi prioritize political expansion over regional development, leaving key regions across Karnataka neglected.

Key Stances: Opposing Bidadi Township and Reforming NEET

During the press briefing, the activist-turned-politician highlighted several pressing policy issues affecting Karnataka:

1. Opposing Bidadi Smart City/Township Project

Chethan strongly opposed the proposed Bidadi township project, warning against the acquisition of fertile agricultural land from local farmers.

 Land Rights: “Taking away farmers’ land in the name of urban development to benefit real estate interests is fundamentally wrong,” he urged.

 Regional Imbalance: He alleged that major resources are concentrated solely on Bengaluru while neglecting regions like coastal Karnataka, Kalyana Karnataka, Malnad, and Old Mysuru.

2. State-Centric Education & NEET Alternatives

Addressing systemic issues in entrance examinations, Chethan argued that the NEET system itself suffers from structural flaws beyond individual exam leaks. He advocated for decentralized, state-focused entrance tests—similar to the state CET—that prioritize local students within Karnataka’s educational framework.

3. Balanced Stance on Central Policies

When asked about central legislative measures, including proposed amendments to the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA), Chethan adopted a measured tone, stating he would study the bill in detail before offering formal critiques, rejecting blind opposition or unquestioning support.

Looking Ahead

With state-wide groundwork underway from coastal regions to North Karnataka, Chethan’s upcoming political party aims to test the waters by building a platform centered on regional advocacy, land rights, and constitutional governance.