Mangaluru: Communally sensitive Dakshina Kannada district is back in the spotlight — not for its volatility, but for what many allege is administrative indifference and police inaction in the face of rising communal crimes and tensions.
A wave of violent incidents, including the recent murders of Ashraf, Suhas Shetty, and Abdul Rahiman, has triggered public outrage and political backlash. Amid mounting pressure, the state government has reshuffled key police positions. Sudhir Kumar Reddy has replaced Anupam Agarwal as the new Mangaluru City Police Commissioner, while Dr Arun K has taken over as Superintendent of Police for Dakshina Kannada, succeeding N Yatish.
These transfers reflect a serious response to what many citizens and observers call an erosion of trust in law enforcement. The district, long known for its fragile communal balance, has recently seen a sharp rise in hate speeches, mob clashes, and moral policing incidents. Yet, the police department’s record tells a different story.
Shockingly, not a single case has been registered in Dakshina Kannada in the last three years against individuals threatening communal peace — despite frequent, high-profile disruptions. Only one case was filed in 2023 for hate speech. In contrast, Udupi registered 17 cases and Uttara Kannada 7, underscoring a disturbing enforcement gap.
Legal experts, activists, and citizens are now demanding accountability, questioning how one of Karnataka’s most communally charged districts reports near-zero action on paper — while communal crimes continue to unfold in public view.
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