Daijiworld Media Network
Bengaluru, March 7: In response to mounting concerns about dangerous wheeling stunts and the flashing of weapons, Karnataka’s Home Minister G. Parameshwara has assured the public that strict measures are being implemented to safeguard public safety and uphold law and order across the state.
Speaking during the Question Hour session in the Legislative Council on Thursday, he addressed the pressing issue raised by JD (S) MLC S.L. Bhoje Gowda regarding the increasing number of incidents endangering lives.
“The Police Department cannot remain idle, and neither can society,” Parameshwara stated firmly, reinforcing the government’s commitment to tackling these issues head-on. He went on to provide a detailed breakdown of the legal actions taken and the progress made in curbing these criminal activities.
On the issue of wheeling, Parameshwara revealed that 136 cases were registered across the state in 2023, with 128 individuals arrested. In 2024, the number rose to 266 cases, leading to the arrest of 179 people. In 2025, 47 cases have been filed, with 30 individuals already taken into custody. The minister condemned these dangerous acts, often involving reckless motorcycle stunts, which have put the public at risk.
Turning to weapon-related crimes, Parameshwara shared that in 2023, 68 cases were reported, resulting in the arrest of 147 individuals. The following year saw a slight decrease in the number of cases, with 66 registered, leading to 187 arrests. As of February 2025, 26 cases have been filed, with 86 arrests made. Parameshwara emphasised that whenever such cases are reported, the police act swiftly to ensure strict legal consequences for the perpetrators.
In Bengaluru, the number of wheeling incidents has been notably high. In 2023, 242 cases were filed, resulting in 207 arrests from a total of 264 accused. In 2024, the number surged to 532 cases, with 479 arrests. This year, Bengaluru police have already registered 114 cases and arrested 102 individuals. Parameshwara assured that the authorities are intensifying efforts to curb these dangerous activities and protect public safety.
Further strengthening law enforcement in the state, the Home Minister highlighted several technological advancements. Bengaluru has now equipped 7,000 CCTV cameras across 1,640 locations, including high-resolution cameras with AI capabilities. Additionally, body-worn cameras have been provided to police officers for increased accountability. The state police are also utilising cutting-edge technology to enhance crime prevention efforts across Karnataka.
To tackle rising concerns about women’s safety, Parameshwara pointed to the Pink Hoysala initiative, designed to provide women with added security. He assured that Bengaluru remains a peaceful city, with authorities taking strict action against any incidents that threaten public peace. He also mentioned the implementation of the Goonda Act to deal with habitual offenders involved in continuous criminal activities. The number of cases under the Goonda Act has gradually increased from 44 in 2022 to 53 in 2023, with 34 in 2024 and 8 cases in 2025.
On the topic of murder rates, Parameshwara rejected opposition claims that law and order in the state had deteriorated. He pointed out that while 1,315 murder cases were reported in 2020, this number had steadily decreased, with 1,208 cases recorded in 2024. The figures for January 2025 were also promising, with only 100 murder cases reported. The Home Minister stressed that law enforcement agencies are working tirelessly to keep crime under control and provide a safe environment for citizens.
Addressing the growing issue of cybercrime, Parameshwara outlined efforts to combat online fraud and identity theft. The state police have set up a dedicated cybercrime unit, led by a senior officer of the DG rank, to tackle this rising threat. Cybercriminals have been targeting citizens by illegally accessing bank accounts and stealing personal data, but the government is stepping up efforts to curb these activities, Parameshwara added.
Through these concerted efforts, the Karnataka government is sending a clear message that it is committed to tackling public safety threats with a robust, technology-driven approach, ensuring that both traditional crimes and new-age threats like cybercrime are dealt with effectively.