Mangaluru: In a decisive move to prevent communal tensions and targeted killings, Superintendent of Police Dr. Arun and Mangaluru Police Commissioner Sudhir Kumar Reddy have initiated legal measures to expel 36 individuals with criminal or inflammatory backgrounds from Dakshina Kannada district, particularly from Bantwal and Puttur regions.
Among those facing externment are BJP leader Arun Puttila, known for his strong Hindutva stance, and Mahesh Shetty Timarodi, a recent advocate of social harmony. Notably, Puttila, who had contested as an independent against the BJP in the last Puttur Assembly election and narrowly lost, has been summoned for an official inquiry scheduled for June 6.
The police have compiled a list of 36 individuals—comprising both Hindu and Muslim activists—from areas under the jurisdiction of several rural police stations including Bantwal, Puttur, Belthangady, and others. Of these, 13 belong to the Muslim community. These individuals are said to have previous records or are affiliated with groups known for disruptive activities.
From Belthangady police station limits, the list names only Mahesh Shetty Timarodi and Manoj Kumar, while names like Bharat Kummelu and Bhuvit Shetty feature under Bantwal rural limits. All individuals listed will initially be served notices seeking their response. Should they fail to provide satisfactory clarification, deportation proceedings will follow.
This action signals the department’s firm stance on curbing extremism and restoring peace across the rural stretches of Dakshina Kannada.
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