Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (JD)

Udupi, Mar 19: A woman was allegedly tied to a tree and beaten on charges of stealing fish at Malpe. The incident came to light on Wednesday, March 19, after a video of the assault went viral on social media.

In the video, a fisherwoman is seen beating another woman and accusing her of stealing fish from boats during unloading at Malpe port. Sources revealed that when boat personnel confronted the woman over the alleged theft of prawns, she initially denied the accusations. However, the matter was later taken to the Malpe police station, where she reportedly admitted to the theft.

Responding to the incident, Udupi deputy commissioner Dr Vidyakumari said, "It is indeed an inhuman act. On moral grounds as well, it is unacceptable to beat a person in such a manner. A mistake may have been made, but that does not justify public assault. What is even more concerning is that those present at the scene did not intervene; instead, they simply laughed at the situation. No one attempted to pacify it. If our mindset continues in this direction, it will be deeply troubling. It is not right to stand by and laugh when someone is being mistreated.

“I have spoken with the superintendent of police to take action as per the law. Such incidents should not be repeated,” she said.

Providing details about the incident and the legal actions taken, Udupi district police superintendent Dr Arun K stated, "Lakshmibai, Sunder, Shilpa, and another individual have been arrested by Malpe police for assaulting the woman. A case has also been registered based on the victim’s complaint. The woman was accused of stealing fish and is a native of Vijayapura district. The case has been filed under IPC sections 74, 115, 351, 352, and the Atrocities Act."