Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru
Mangaluru, May 4: Communal incidents continue to be reported in Dakshina Kannada district, with moral policing cases surfacing frequently. When young men and women from different religions are seen together, moral policing groups become active, often attacking them and recording videos to defame them. Hindu and Muslim extremist organizations are reportedly involved in these incidents.
According to data provided by the Home Department, 24 cases of moral policing have been officially registered in the district over the past three years. However, many incidents go unreported as victims often refrain from filing complaints due to fear and various other reasons, allowing the perpetrators to continue their activities without legal consequences.
Number of cases registered over the years
- 2023 – 15 cases
- 2024 – 8 cases
- 2025 – 2 cases
Number of accused listed
- 2023 – 15
- 2024 – 7
- 2025 – 0
Lack of control over moral policing
When the Congress government came to power in Karnataka, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah had promised strict action against moral policing during his first press conference. However, these incidents continue to be reported across various districts, including Mangaluru.
Legislative Council member Ivan D'Souza recently raised concerns in the council about young professionals losing interest in working in Dakshina Kannada due to the prevalence of moral policing. In response, the Home Department stated that there is no evidence to suggest that such incidents have discouraged youth from pursuing their careers in the district. The department further assured that moral policing activities are being effectively controlled to maintain a sense of security among the public.
Police department’s justification and measures
The police department has outlined the following measures to curb moral policing:
- Public meetings and peace discussions are being conducted to encourage citizens to report any suspected immoral activities to the police rather than taking matters into their own hands.
- Strict legal action, including cases registered under security laws, is being taken against those involved in moral policing.
- Police teams immediately respond to incidents, ensuring the protection of victims and property while taking legal action against offenders.
- An e-beat system has been implemented across the district to monitor such activities effectively. All subordinate officers, beat staff, and intelligence personnel have been instructed to keep a close watch on moral policing incidents.
Despite police assurances, moral policing remains a persistent issue in Dakshina Kannada, raising concerns about law enforcement effectiveness and communal harmony in the region.