The Karnataka government’s move to include Udupi under the newly constituted Special Action Force (SAF), intended to curb communal tensions, has sparked strong opposition from Udupi MLA Yashpal Suvarna. He expressed disapproval, claiming the decision unfairly damages the district’s longstanding peaceful image.
Suvarna stated that Udupi has remained free of communal disturbances over the past ten years—even when incidents were reported in neighboring Dakshina Kannada. He questioned the need for SAF presence in Udupi, asserting that neither local representatives nor citizens were consulted before the decision was taken.
“The government’s decision to deploy the SAF in Udupi, Dakshina Kannada, and Shivamogga appears arbitrary,” said Suvarna. He further criticized the Home Department, suggesting that the SAF’s creation highlights its failure to preserve peace in Dakshina Kannada. According to the MLA, Home Minister G. Parameshwara’s move indirectly acknowledges a lapse in law enforcement within these districts.
Joining the debate, Sharan Pumpwell, South Karnataka Divisional Joint Secretary of the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP), voiced concern over the SAF’s mandate. He urged that the force remain unbiased and not be perceived as anti-Hindu.
“The SAF should direct its efforts toward tackling critical issues like forced religious conversions, cow slaughter, drug trafficking, and so-called love jihad—problems that genuinely threaten communal balance,” he stated.
Critics argue that the state must strengthen existing law enforcement rather than impose additional forces without local consensus.
Read Also: