Moodbidri: A police staff member attached to the Moodbidri police station has been suspended for allegedly harassing a woman complainant by making obscene calls and sending inappropriate messages. The action has sparked outrage among locals, who say the incident highlights the misuse of official access to complainants’ details.
Complaint lodged over family dispute
According to police sources, a married woman from Thodaru near Moodbidri had approached the station on August 23 to lodge a complaint related to a family dispute. Inspector Sandesh had then called both the woman and her husband, mediated between the two, and subsequently closed the case.
Misuse of complainant’s number
However, trouble began shortly after. Police staffer Shanthappa allegedly accessed the woman’s mobile number from the complaint copy submitted at the station. From August 25 to September 1, he is said to have repeatedly called her, sent messages, and engaged in obscene conversations. He allegedly went so far as to ask her to meet him in person.
The complainant stated that the calls were persistent and distressing, leaving her with little option but to approach the police once again.
Fresh complaint and suspension
On September 1, the woman returned to the Moodbidri police station and lodged a formal complaint against Shanthappa. She also submitted call records and message logs as evidence to support her allegations.
Following this, a case was registered against him, and immediate disciplinary action was taken. Shanthappa has since been suspended from service pending further investigation.
Accountability demanded
Local residents and civic activists have strongly condemned the incident, pointing out the seriousness of a police staffer exploiting his position to harass a complainant. They argue that such misconduct undermines public trust in law enforcement, particularly in sensitive cases involving women.
Legal experts say that if the charges are proven, strict punishment must follow to set an example and to ensure complainants feel safe approaching police stations.
Safeguards needed
This case has also reignited the debate over how complainant details are stored and accessed. Several activists have urged the police department to introduce safeguards that prevent unauthorised use of personal information, such as restricting access only to investigating officers and ensuring digital data protection.
Conclusion
While the swift suspension of the accused staffer has been welcomed, residents stress that the matter should not end there. They are demanding a thorough probe, strict action under relevant laws, and institutional reforms to protect complainants from similar incidents in the future.