Daijiworld Media Network- Bengaluru
Bengaluru, June 1: Communally sensitive Dakshina Kannada district is once again in the spotlight, this time for the alleged inaction and inefficiency of the police department in curbing communal tensions and hate crimes.
The recent spate of murders — including that of Ashraf, Suhas Shetty, and Abdul Rahiman — has intensified public concern, prompting the state government to reshuffle key police positions in the region.
Amidst growing criticism, Sudhir Kumar Reddy has now taken charge as the new Mangaluru City Police Commissioner, replacing Anupam Agarwal.
Representational images
Likewise, Dr Arun K has been appointed as the Superintendent of Police for Dakshina Kannada, replacing N Yatish. The transfers follow widespread dissatisfaction over the law enforcement’s handling of escalating communal conflicts.
Dakshina Kannada has long held the reputation of being communally volatile. In recent times, there has been a disturbing rise in provocative speeches, communal clashes, and moral policing incidents. However, critics argue that the police have remained passive, and worse, indifferent.
Shockingly, government data reveals that not a single case has been registered in the last three years in Dakshina Kannada against individuals who have posed a threat to communal harmony.
In stark contrast, neighbouring districts have shown some level of legal intervention. Uttara Kannada has registered 7 such cases over three years, while Udupi has recorded 17 — 9 in 2023, 5 in 2024, and 3 in 2025.
Further highlighting the negligence, only one case has been registered in Dakshina Kannada in the past three years against those delivering hate speeches — and that too in 2023. In comparison, Udupi district saw 6 such cases and Uttara Kannada recorded 9 cases, pointing to a clear disparity in enforcement.
Citizens, activists, and legal experts alike are questioning how one of the most communally charged districts in Karnataka has shown zero cases on paper, despite multiple incidents making headlines. This glaring mismatch has sparked allegations of deliberate inaction and administrative apathy.