Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi
Udupi, Mar 20: Nearly 24 hours after the assault on a woman at Malpe fishing port, Udupi MLA Yashpal Suvarna has responded, terming it an unfortunate incident and emphasizing the need for immediate action by the fisheries and police departments to prevent such occurrences in the future.
Malpe port, one of the largest all-season fishing harbors in the country, has been facing serious management lapses due to alleged negligence by the fisheries department. Despite repeated reports of theft and security concerns, authorities have failed to install adequate CCTV cameras or deploy sufficient security personnel.
File photo
Suvarna stated that he had already held three meetings with officials from the fisheries, port, and coastal security police departments, instructing them to strengthen security measures. However, even after the port maintenance contract expired over a year ago, the tender process has not been conducted properly, and the same contractor has been allowed to continue operations in violation of regulations.
A meeting was held last Saturday to address this issue, and the district administration was also informed. However, no action has been taken so far, leaving fishermen to face unnecessary hardships. Suvarna has urged authorities to take strict action against officials responsible for this serious lapse.
Malpe fishing harbor has long been a center of livelihood for thousands of people, fostering communal harmony among fishermen. Despite minor incidents in the past, the Malpe Fishermen’s Association has always resolved issues amicably. Workers from diverse economic backgrounds, not only from Udupi but also from other districts and states, have been working at the port without discrimination.
The association has consistently prioritized workers' welfare. During the COVID-19 pandemic, it arranged food and transportation for migrant laborers returning to their hometowns.
At a time when fishermen are already struggling due to a decline in fish catch, this incident has added to their difficulties. The police department has launched an investigation, and Suvarna, who is currently in Bengaluru for the legislative session, has been in constant contact with the district police superintendent for updates.
He assured that necessary steps would be taken in collaboration with the district administration and the Malpe Fishermen’s Association to prevent such incidents in the future.