Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru (ANK)
Mangaluru Feb 11: Social activists and members of the public raised several issues during the public grievances meet held by ADGP law and order Alok Kumar on February 10. But, they were unhappy over the manner in which the grievances were attended to by the ADGP.
A large number of public, social activists including Prasanna Ravi, Hanumantha Kamath, Gerald towers, DYFI came with grievances to get them resolved. The DYFI recently raided illegal clubs at Falnir and also protested its closure.
There were issues like illegal activities, sand mafia, prostitution and corruption charges at Police stations and many more that were brought to the notice of ADGP Alok Kumar.
Prasanna Ravi openly said during the meeting about cops taking money at the station from the complainant.
ADGP Alok Kumar said complaints need to be genuine and specific on the allegations made.
Social activist Prasanna Ravi said, “When ADGP invited the members of the public to put forth their grievances I thought that we can complain individually. It is a bit uncomfortable to air your grievances when you have other officers as well in the meeting. When we complain, the ADGP asks for proof, if we have to provide the entire information, proofs, and documents with the address then why does the Police department exist? ADGP wants specific and genuine complaints of victims but the victims are hesitant as he fears facing consequences from the cops if they come forward and complain.”
He said, “The police department itself is involved in the sand mafia with politicians. We had a sincere officer DCP Hariram Shankar who is now transferred whom I believed. Even after two years, why has the Police Commissioner not been transferred? Yes, we need a people-friendly commissioner and we don’t have issues with him taking part in singing but when there is any serious case he won’t come to support us,” said Prasanna Ravi.
Social activist Hanumantha Kamath said, “The crime rate has risen in Mangaluru including gambling and illegal sand transportation during night. Mangaluru Police arrest those who consume ganja but they fail to arrest the kingpin and supplier of ganja. It is impossible to curb crime when there is political interference.”
“We have been called to attend a public grievances meet, but ADGP is not allowing us to talk and air our complaints because he is asking for proof. ADGP said not to waste time by giving general complaints. Meeting was expected to start at 11 am which was delayed by almost two hours, so the public's time has no value?” questioned Hanumantha Kamath.