Bengaluru/Mangaluru: Following a series of communal incidents in Mangaluru and surrounding regions – including mob lynching, revenge killings, and multiple stabbings – the Karnataka government has transferred senior police officials in a bid to restore public confidence and maintain peace in the coastal belt.
Public Demand Triggers Transfers
Karnataka Home Minister G. Parameshwara confirmed on Friday that the decision to transfer the Mangaluru Police Commissioner, Mangaluru Superintendent of Police (SP), and Udupi SP was taken following repeated demands from the local community.
“During my earlier visit, there was a strong sentiment to replace certain officers. At that time, we felt it wasn’t appropriate to act immediately, but now, with mounting concerns, we’ve taken this step,” Parameshwara said while addressing reporters.
Officers Replaced in Coastal Districts
Mangaluru Police Commissioner Anupam Agarwal, an IPS officer of 2008 batch has been replaced by 2010 batch IPS officer Sudheer Kumar Reddy, formerly DIG, Intelligence.
2014 batch IPS Arun K. has taken charge as the new SP of Mangaluru, replacing N. Yathish. Hariram Shankar has been appointed as the SP of Udupi.
These changes come amid heightened tensions in Mangaluru following the murder of Abdul Raheem, reportedly in retaliation for the killing of Hindu activist Suhas Shetty last month.
Raheem’s Murder Sparks Political Fallout
The murder of Abdul Raheem – a goods vehicle operator and mosque secretary – by a gang of 15 men near Bantwal town triggered outrage across the Muslim community. Allegations arose that his killing was incited by inflammatory remarks made after Shetty’s murder.
In a dramatic move, minority community leaders in Mangaluru submitted mass resignations from the Congress party, accusing the police of inaction. The resignations, made publicly at Shaadi Mahal on May 29 in front of thousands, followed an appeal from Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, who reportedly tried to dissuade them.
State Assures Strict Action, Formation of Task Force
Parameshwara said the government will not tolerate further violence and reiterated its commitment to restoring law and order. “We will not allow anyone to disturb peace in this region. Mangaluru is a model district in education and economic progress,” he asserted.
He also confirmed the formation of a special task force to monitor and control communal tensions, to be deployed in Mangaluru, Udupi, and Shivamogga.
“We will regulate provocative speeches and take legal action within existing frameworks. Measures will also be taken to control harmful social media activity,” he said.
Root Causes Under Investigation
The Home Minister revealed that an investigation is underway to identify the root causes and possible political motivations behind the recent incidents. “Whether the motives are political or otherwise, strict action will be taken,” he said.
Prohibitory orders were imposed in parts of Mangaluru district until the evening of May 30. Meanwhile, four suspects have been arrested, and an FIR has been registered against 15 individuals in Abdul Raheem’s murder.
Government Reassures Region Will Not Be Ignored
Addressing concerns about governance in coastal Karnataka, Parameshwara reiterated the government’s commitment – “No region will be neglected – not the coast, not north Karnataka. We will give the coastal belt the attention it deserves.”
