Mangaluru: At the SC/ST grievance redressal meeting held on Sunday at the city police commissioner’s office, community representatives called for fixed monthly grievance sessions at police stations to improve participation and consistency. While city-level meetings are regularly conducted on the fourth Sunday, members suggested station-level meets be held in the third week of each month.
The session was chaired by DCP (Law and Order) Sidharth Goyal, who directed officials to compile a report on earlier meetings and assured that the city commissioner is likely to attend the next session. Members also pushed for district-level grievance forums under the Deputy Commissioner to address broader systemic issues.
One member demanded action against food outlets allegedly using artificial colouring, to which DCP Goyal promised to involve health authorities. Allegations of Matka gambling in Moodbidri, poor infrastructure in SC/ST colonies under Aikala GP, and damage from illegal quarrying were discussed. SP of DCRE, Simon C.A., asked for a formal complaint with details.
Concerns were raised over the lack of facilities at crematoriums, and opposition to the proposed sewage plant at Yelathur was voiced due to potential harm to a nearby waterbody.
Members urged that the commercial complex near PVS Junction, run by the social welfare department, be rented solely to SC/ST entrepreneurs. However, Assistant Director Suresh Adiga noted violations due to subleasing.
Other key issues included a maternal death case at Lady Goschen Hospital, increasing traffic violations in Ullal and Pandeshwar, and parking chaos near the Army Canteen.