The controversy surrounding Bhatkal PSI Yellappa Madara has intensified following recent clarifications by District Superintendent of Police (SP) M Narayan. The issue emerged after a report on Kannada Vani alleged that PSI Yellappa collected traffic fines via QR code payments or cash, allegedly transferring the funds to Vinayak Maruti Shet, a local gold trader.
SP Narayan explained that Udaya Naik, a motorist fined for a traffic violation, paid the penalty through a UPI app to Vinayak Maruti Shet due to insufficient cash. According to the SP, the funds were later transferred to PSI Yellappa’s account.
However, Kannada Vani has raised concerns about discrepancies in the SP’s account. The portal noted that the gold trader was not present at the scene, challenging the validity of the SP’s explanation. Additionally, the lack of use of a body camera by PSI Yellappa has fueled suspicions about adherence to police protocols and transparency.
The portal also questioned the SP’s statement, suggesting that tracking the gold trader’s mobile signal could confirm his location during the transaction. There are growing concerns about whether other motorists were directed to deposit fines into the same private account.
In response to public outcry and escalating controversy, the Uttara Kannada District Police have suspended PSI Yellappa Madara pending a departmental inquiry. The suspension follows an investigation revealing violations of departmental rules, including the collection of fines and depositing the money into a private account. The District Police Superintendent has confirmed the suspension and ongoing inquiry.
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