Daijiworld Media Network - Karkala (JD)

Karkala, May 16: In a strict action against littering, the Sanur grama panchayat administration imposed a fine on a group of tourists from Koppal for allegedly throwing plastic waste along the roadside near Avinash Residence on the Sanur Highway on Friday afternoon.

According to reports, the tourists, who had arrived in two vehicles around 3 pm, allegedly disposed of plastic waste after having lunch by the roadside, leaving the area littered. Sanur panchayat development officer Vishwanath reached the spot and confronted the tourists, insisting that they pay a penalty for violating cleanliness norms.

The tourists reportedly argued that no such practice existed in their hometown and questioned whether the panchayat had installed any warning boards prohibiting littering. They allegedly refused to pay the fine and challenged the officials.

Following the heated exchange, the panchayat development officer contacted the police helpline 112 and directed the tourists to appear before the Karkala Town Police Station.

Local social activist Ernadka Vishwanath Shetty and several residents extended support to the panchayat officials, stating that imposing fines was necessary to create awareness about cleanliness among visitors.

Meanwhile, panchayat officials and administrative officers also arrived at the location. However, while being escorted towards the police station, the tourists allegedly attempted to evade action by speeding away towards Padubidri from the Fulkery Bypass Circle.

The panchayat development officer, who had photographed and recorded videos of the littered area, later lodged a complaint at the Karkala Town police station seeking registration of an FIR against the tourists.

Police inspector Muralidhar Nayak reportedly informed the officials that provisions under the IPC allowed for a maximum penalty of Rs 500 and advised the panchayat to proceed under panchayat regulations.

The matter was later discussed with taluk panchayat executive officer Prashanth and district-level officials. Panchayat authorities decided to escalate the issue to the superintendent of police through the district panchayat administration.

After panchayat development officer Vishwanath informed district panchayat chief executive officer Prateek Boyal about the incident, senior authorities reportedly instructed police officials to take immediate action, stating that strict penalties were necessary to promote public cleanliness.

Acting swiftly, police intercepted the tourists’ vehicle near Udupi around 8 pm and directed the tourists to pay the fine imposed by the panchayat.

Under provisions of the Panchayat Act, the tourists were fined Rs 2,000. The amount was collected digitally through scanner payment, and an official receipt was issued.

The prompt action by Karkala police and the strict stance taken by Sanur GP officials, including panchayat development officer Vishwanath and administrative officer Rajaram, assistant commissioner of the Karkala commercial department, has received widespread appreciation from the public.