Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru
Mangaluru, July 28: Police commissioner Sudheer Kumar Reddy and superintendent of police Dr Arun K have assured strict action against illegal sand mining and unauthorised use of DJ systems in Dakshina Kannada district.
The announcement came during a grievance redressal meeting for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes held at the city police commissioner’s office on Sunday. Responding to complaints raised by members of the Dalit community, the officers outlined the administration's stance on key issues.
Dr Arun clarified that there is sufficient availability of non-CRZ (Coastal Regulation Zone) sand — nearly double the requirement — and it can be booked through the district administration’s official app. He pointed out that some groups insist on CRZ sand, which involves illegal activities and black money, and reiterated that such practices would not be tolerated.
Dalit man alleges abuse at shelter home
Dalit leader S P Anand alleged that a man named Yadav was forcibly taken from Mangaluru city and admitted to the Pachchanady shelter home on suspicion of begging. He claimed Yadav was subjected to harassment and forced labour for a year before being released with just Rs 10 and death threats. In response, assistant director of the social welfare department, Suresh Adiga, said the matter was under investigation.
Helmet rule enforcement sees temporary slowdown
Participants raised concerns about the rise in two-wheeler riders flouting helmet rules. ACP (traffic) Najma Farooqi explained that while fines are being imposed, enforcement operations have been scaled back temporarily due to the risk of accidents during the monsoon. DCP (law and order) Mithun H N added that following a recent accident in Mandya during a helmet check, authorities have shifted to camera-based enforcement.
Strict timing norms for festivals
Regarding loud music during festivals, commissioner Sudheer Reddy reiterated that events such as Ganesh Chaturthi and Janmashtami must conclude by 10:30 PM. Use of DJs is not permitted beyond that time. Violations can be reported to the police control room or the emergency number 112. Offenders will face stringent action, he added.
Objection to including Kudubi community in SC list
Dalit leaders including S P Anand voiced strong opposition to the proposal to include the Kudubi community in the Scheduled Caste list, stating that it would be unjust to existing SC and ST communities.
Equal treatment in police stations
Activist Girish Kumar urged police to treat all citizens equally — whether elderly, rich, or poor — at every police station. M Devadas emphasised that caste-based crimes should be treated seriously and prompt action must be taken.
Concerns over CCTV monitoring
Pramod Kumar requested a review of the functioning of CCTVs installed by the Mangaluru City Corporation in Dalit colonies such as Urvastores and Sunkadakatte, including how the footage is stored and accessed. Police officers assured that these systems would be audited at the respective police stations.
DCP (crime and traffic) Ravishankar and DCRE inspector Vidyadhar were present. Several participants including Chandrakumar and Amal Jyothi raised various concerns.