Udupi: High court upholds Goonda Act detention
The Karnataka high court has upheld the detention of Kabir Hussain (46), also known as Kabir, under the Goonda Act. Kabir, a resident of Koudoor village, Karkala taluk, was identified as an active member of the Garuda gang and involved in criminal activities across Udupi, Dakshina Kannada, and Chikkamagaluru districts, according to Udupi SP Hariram Shankar.
Detention order and execution
Following a recommendation based on a report by the Karkala town police inspector, the district magistrate of Udupi issued the detention order on July 10, 2025. Kabir was taken into custody by the sub-inspector of Karkala town police and sent to the Central Prison, Mysuru the same day.
The high court confirmed the Goonda Act detention for one year, effective from July 10, during proceedings on August 4.
Criminal record
Police records show 17 criminal cases registered against Kabir since 2005:
- Convicted in 2 cases, including a 2012 assault case at Sringeri police station, where he received 10 years rigorous imprisonment and a Rs 50,000 fine.
- Acquitted in 8 cases due to hostile witnesses
- Settled through compromise in 3 cases
- Pending trial in 2 cases
- Under investigation in 2 cases
Conclusion
The court’s decision underscores the state’s stringent approach toward repeat offenders and organised criminal activity, reaffirming the legal framework for preventive detention under the Goonda Act.