Bengaluru still has 6,346 active rowdies despite the closure of 1,548 history sheets over the past two years as part of a targeted crackdown on crime.

In 2024 alone, police shut down 1,172 history sheets, the highest in a single year, to focus on tracking active criminals while avoiding undue scrutiny of those who have reformed. The previous year, 376 history sheets were closed, according to the City Crime Records Bureau (CCRB).

A history sheet is maintained for repeat offenders involved in severe crimes to facilitate police surveillance. However, many remained open against deceased, bedridden, or relocated individuals, prompting a revision, said Bengaluru Police Commissioner B Dayananda.

“When history sheets pile up, it becomes difficult to monitor real threats. By closing unnecessary records, we can keep closer watch on active criminals,” he explained.

A senior DCP revealed that reducing the rowdy list has curbed land mafia activities. Key legal provisions like Karnataka Control of Organised Crime Act (KCOCA) and the Goonda Act have been invoked against major offenders.

Since June 2023, police have slapped KCOCA on 108 criminals and raided 5,398 rowdies. Notorious figures like ‘Wilson Garden’ Naga have been relocated to distant jails.

Authorities believe restricting phone access in prisons will further disrupt criminal networks.

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