As Karnataka gears up to deploy dedicated anti-rowdy squads across police stations, Kalaburagi has emerged as the district with the highest number of rowdy-sheeters in the state, according to data reviewed by the government.
Figures presented during a recent review meeting chaired by Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar showed that Kalaburagi accounts for 2,626 rowdy-sheeters, nearly nine per cent of the state’s total. The district is also the home turf of Karnataka Home Minister Priyank Kharge.
Rowdy-sheeters not always hardened criminals
Police officials clarified that being listed as a rowdy-sheeter does not necessarily mean an individual is a hardened criminal or gang member.
Under police regulations, rowdy-sheets may be opened against habitual offenders or persons repeatedly involved in offences such as assault, intimidation, extortion, harassment, land disputes and other activities that may disturb public order.
The system enables police to monitor repeat offenders and take preventive action when necessary. Authorities can also invoke provisions under the Goonda Act and initiate externment proceedings against habitual lawbreakers.
Numbers declining in Kalaburagi
Despite topping the state list, Kalaburagi has witnessed a steady decline in the number of rowdy-sheeters over the past three years.
The district had 3,579 rowdy-sheeters in 2024, which reduced to 2,829 in 2025 and further declined to 2,626 this year.
According to Kalaburagi Superintendent of Police Adduru Srinivasulu, many of the cases are linked to alcoholism and land-related disputes.
He said police periodically review cases and consider an individual’s conduct over a ten-year period before deciding whether a rowdy-sheet should be closed.
State sees overall reduction
The data also revealed a broader decline across Karnataka, with the number of rowdy-sheeters falling from 33,388 in 2024 to 29,316 in 2026.
After Kalaburagi, the districts with the highest numbers include Mysuru (1,871), Hassan (1,612), Dakshina Kannada (1,569) and Raichur (1,566).
However, Karnataka Director General and Inspector General of Police M A Saleem disputed the figures presented at the review meeting, stating that Bengaluru City has the highest concentration of rowdy-sheeters in the state.
He also noted that traditional offences have increasingly shifted towards cybercrime and social media-related offences, contributing to changes in crime patterns across Karnataka.