Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru (MS)

Mangaluru, Dec 16: The state home minister Dr G Parameshwara's announcement of an anti-communal wing to address provocative speeches, social media misuse, and moral policing seems to have remained limited to the announcement stage. Despite the formation, moral policing incidents continue unabated in coastal districts, particularly in Dakshina Kannada.

Over the past six months, there have been 13 reported cases of moral policing, with instances ranging from assaults on students and professionals to harassment on beaches. While the anti-communal wing was intended to monitor and curb such activities, some feel its effectiveness is yet to be realized.

Dr G Parameshwara announcing the formation of anti-communal wing (File photo)

A police officer from Mangaluru highlighted challenges in curbing moral policing and emphasized monitoring the activities of individuals and media groups spreading communal hatred. However, the effectiveness of the anti-communal wing remains a subject of scrutiny.

Social worker B K Imtiyaz expressed satisfaction that there have not been any communal-related murders or chaos recently but stressed the need to strengthen the anti-communal wing, especially with the approaching Lok Sabha elections. Despite concerns, some police officers admit that the current implementation of the anti-communal wing is limited, with challenges in putting an end to moral policing and difficulties in registering and pursuing complaints.