Puttur: A dispute over a document reportedly damaged due to a technical fault at a digital service centre in Puttur’s Darbe area escalated into a physical altercation between two groups on Friday.
According to police, Mandekolu residents of Sullia taluk — Mubashir, Fathima and another person identified as Mubashir — visited the Dream Destination Digital Seva Kendra, owned by Anjana Pai, to photocopy and laminate several documents.
Dispute begins over damaged document
One of the documents was reportedly damaged during the process following a technical fault. This led to a verbal argument between the three visitors and shop owner Anjana Pai and her son Sudarshan Pai.
The argument allegedly escalated into a physical confrontation, with both sides accusing each other of assault.
A crowd gathered at the shop as the situation intensified. Puttur Town police reached the spot, gathered information and directed both groups to approach the police station and file complaints.
Police allegedly obstructed during action
When police attempted to take Sudarshan Pai to the police station for questioning, some people gathered at the spot allegedly obstructed police personnel in the discharge of their duties.
Police said a complaint and counter-complaint are being registered in connection with the altercation. A separate complaint is also being registered over the alleged obstruction of police personnel.
The complete details of the cases will be made available after their formal registration, police said.
CCTV footage to be examined
A CCTV camera is installed at the digital service centre where the incident occurred. Police said the footage will be examined as part of the investigation and further legal action will be taken based on the findings.
Police have also warned against spreading false rumours about the incident and said appropriate legal action will be taken against anyone found circulating misinformation.