Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru
Mangaluru, June 19: Mangaluru city police commissioner Sudheer Kumar Reddy has appealed to the public, especially the youth and their parents, to exercise utmost responsibility and restraint while driving, in light of the increasing number of fatal accidents reported in the city.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the commissioner revealed that 75 people have died in road accidents in Mangaluru city limits so far this year, with 70 of those deaths caused due to rash and negligent driving.
“Most of the victims were youth under 30 years of age, with a significant number below 25. This is a serious concern,” he said.
Urging parents to be cautious while handing over vehicles to young drivers, he added, “Please ensure they do not drive rashly. Even the police cannot stop them once they speed to escape — and it could lead to fatal accidents.”
He cited two recent deaths of youths in the city due to rash driving under the influence of alcohol. “This year alone, four such deaths have been reported. I strongly urge people not to drive under the influence of alcohol, and to always follow traffic rules. Drive slow, follow signals, and reach home safely,” he said.
Highlighting the broader impact of such deaths, he noted, “If the deceased was the breadwinner, the entire family suffers. We urge everyone to be responsible — if you need to reach early, leave early. Life is precious.”
Addressing another growing concern, the commissioner warned against individuals who have been “investigating” criminal cases on social media, deciding whom police should arrest or release.
“Police act based on evidence. We cannot arrest anyone without proper proof. If you have any evidence — whether in support of the accused or to prove someone's innocence — please come forward and submit it at any police station. We will examine it fairly,” he said.
He cautioned that spreading such claims and interfering with investigations on social media is a punishable offence. “Such actions may result in legal consequences. Be a responsible citizen — do not divert the course of an investigation,” he urged.