Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru/Udupi

Mangaluru/Udupi, Aug 14: In a significant step to dismantle the drug supply network that is spreading narcotic addiction among the youth in the coastal belt, local police have introduced a new complaint system using QR codes.

To enable the public and students to share information about drug peddling and usage without fear, the Mangaluru police commissionerate and Udupi district police have implemented a QR code-based reporting system. The codes are being displayed in major colleges and educational institutions to raise awareness.

QR codes for Udupi (left) and Mangaluru

The key feature of this system is complete anonymity — when scanned, the QR code does not collect any personal details of the complainant. Information provided remains confidential, and the complaints are directly forwarded to a designated cell at the Mangaluru police commissioner’s office or the Udupi district SP office. The police will act immediately on such reports.

Upon scanning the QR code, a web link developed by the police department will open. The user will be prompted with questions such as: Do you suspect drug peddling in your area? Do you believe your friends or neighbours are using drugs? Do you suspect someone is in possession of narcotics? Answering these questions is enough to lodge a complaint.

Previously, there was fear that influential individuals might be involved in the drug trade and that some police personnel might expose complainants’ identities. As a result, even those aware of such activities hesitated to file reports. Now, with the QR system, those fears have been allayed. According to police, several people in Mangaluru have already submitted complaints via the QR code, leading to prompt action.

The QR code for the Mangaluru police commissionerate jurisdiction is proving effective. Over a hundred individuals have already scanned the code and shared information, based on which several cases have been cracked. Many narcotics transporters and peddlers have been arrested, and valuable leads have been gathered. Students, parents, and the public can scan the code to share information, which will remain strictly confidential, said Mangaluru city police commissioner Sudheer Kumar Reddy.

“If instances of drug usage or sale are detected, anyone can lodge a complaint. For this purpose, QR codes have been distributed to schools and colleges. Complainant details will remain undisclosed, and the complaint will directly reach the DySP of the CEN station. The police will then initiate immediate investigations with the help of the local station. These QR codes will also be placed on school and college notice boards, public areas, and CCTV-installed locations,” said Udupi district superintendent of police Hariram Shankar.