Mangaluru: A case has been registered at Bajpe police station against a Bengaluru-based woman for allegedly obstructing police personnel and disrupting traffic management near Kateel temple during a peak holiday rush.
The accused has been identified as Sandhya, who was travelling in a tempo traveller when the incident occurred. According to police officials, the situation unfolded amid heavy vehicular movement as a large number of devotees had gathered at Kateel temple owing to a public holiday.
Traffic arrangements in place due to heavy rush
Police had implemented special traffic arrangements to manage congestion in the area. As part of the plan, heavy vehicles were diverted towards Kinnigoli from Malligeyangadi junction, while only light motor vehicles were permitted to proceed towards the temple premises.
These measures were put in place to ensure smooth traffic flow and prevent bottlenecks near the temple, which often witnesses high footfall during holidays and religious occasions.
Argument escalates into obstruction
According to the complaint filed by Chidananda Kate, a police officer attached to Bajpe police station, the accused allegedly objected to the traffic restrictions. Sandhya, who was travelling in a tempo traveller, reportedly insisted that her vehicle be allowed to proceed towards the temple despite being informed about the diversion rules.
When police personnel denied permission citing the traffic arrangements, she allegedly began arguing with them. The situation escalated when she reportedly stood in the middle of the road, obstructing vehicular movement and causing inconvenience to other commuters.
Allegations of verbal abuse and threats
The complaint further states that the woman verbally abused police personnel in public while they were in uniform. Her actions reportedly interfered with the officers’ ability to perform their duties effectively during a critical traffic management operation.
In addition to the alleged obstruction, Sandhya is also accused of issuing threats to the police personnel. She reportedly claimed that she and her group had come from Bengaluru and would “teach them a lesson” by recording videos of the incident and posting them on social media platforms.
Such actions, police said, not only disrupted traffic but also created a tense atmosphere at a location already dealing with high public movement.
Case registered, investigation underway
Based on the complaint, Bajpe police have registered a case against the woman under relevant sections pertaining to obstruction of public servants and disturbance of public order. Officials have confirmed that further investigation is underway to ascertain the full sequence of events and gather supporting evidence, including any available video recordings.
Police sources indicated that statements from eyewitnesses and personnel present at the scene are being recorded as part of the probe. Authorities are also examining whether the accused’s actions caused any significant delays or safety concerns during the traffic diversion process.
Conclusion
The incident highlights the challenges faced by law enforcement personnel in managing large crowds and ensuring public safety during peak periods. Police have reiterated the importance of public cooperation in such situations, especially at religious and high-traffic locations.
They have urged citizens to adhere to traffic guidelines and respect instructions issued by officials on duty to avoid unnecessary disruptions and legal consequences.