Amid growing concern over police accountability, the Karnataka government on Thursday disclosed that 88 police personnel are facing criminal cases registered under provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).

Home Minister G Parameshwara, responding to a question by MLC T A Saravan in the Legislative Council, said FIRs have been registered against all 88 personnel for various offences.

Arrests, suspensions and departmental action underway

Parameshwara informed the House that some of the accused policemen have already been arrested and suspended, while others are facing departmental inquiries under the Karnataka State Police (Disciplinary Procedure) (Amendment) Rules.

“We are taking steps for stringent action, including termination of service wherever warranted,” the Home Minister said, adding that dismissal would follow if the charges are proved.

Minister assures strict action

The minister emphasised that the government would not shield erring personnel and that maintaining public trust in the police force was a priority.

He said criminal cases against police personnel were being monitored closely to ensure accountability and adherence to the law.

12 FIRs over ‘Pakistan Zindabad’ slogans

In response to a separate question by MLC C T Ravi, Parameshwara also revealed that 12 FIRs have been registered in Karnataka over the past three years in connection with “Pakistan Zindabad” sloganeering.

Of these, six cases were registered suo motu by the police, while the remaining were based on formal complaints.

Status of investigations

Providing details on the status of the cases, the minister said chargesheets have been filed in five cases, while B (closure) reports were submitted in two cases.

Investigations are still underway in three cases. In one case, a C report—where allegations are found to be neither true nor false—has been filed, while another case is awaiting a report from the Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL).

Focus on law enforcement integrity

The disclosures come amid renewed debate on police conduct and institutional accountability in the state. The government reiterated its commitment to act firmly against misconduct within the force, while ensuring due process is followed.