Pics: Dayanand Kukkaje
Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru
Mangaluru, Jul 18: Inmates of the beggars’ shelter home at Pacchanady have alleged years of abuse and mistreatment under the tenure of former superintendent Ashok Shetty, who retired in May 2025.
One of the inmates, Yadav Shetty from Kavoor, approached Daijiworld to share his distressing experience, stating that he had been wrongfully detained and admitted to the shelter home.
During a recent visit by a human rights delegation comprising Bennet Navita Moras, Sujatha Yathish, Rony Crasta, S L Pinto, and Briston Moras, accompanied by the Daijiworld team, more than 118 inmates shared accounts of mistreatment. The shelter houses individuals from Mangaluru as well as from other districts and states.
An inmate from Mandya, who once worked as a security supervisor at Toyota and later as an auto driver in Bengaluru, said he was admitted on December 26. “The treatment here was worse than in prison,” he claimed.
Several residents reported physical abuse, with some still bearing visible bruises. They described being forced to bathe naked in groups once a week, using only three mugs of water. They were made to brush their teeth with charcoal despite the government providing toothpaste. “If we leaned on the wall, we were beaten. If we complained about food, especially about salt, they would pour salt onto our plates and force us to eat it,” said an inmate.
They also alleged that Ashok Shetty used them for unpaid labour at his residence and misused his position for personal gain. One inmate reportedly worked as a driver for Kavoor corporator Lohith Amin.
Some inmates, including skilled workers like masons and cooks, claimed they were forcibly picked up from bus stands and railway stations while waiting to return home. Many expressed a desire to reintegrate into society and spoke of mental harassment faced at the shelter.
Although the shelter had a well-equipped kitchen, it reportedly remained unused until two months ago, with food previously cooked outside. Inmates rehabilitated as security guards allegedly assaulted others on Ashok Shetty’s orders.
New superintendent brings hope
The current superintendent, Laxman, who took charge on July 3, has received praise from the inmates for improving conditions. They reported receiving proper food and humane treatment under his leadership.
Speaking to Daijiworld, Laxman said, “As per rules, inmates are to stay at the shelter for a year before release. However, many have been here for over three years and are often readmitted even after being released.”
He added, “If family members come forward, we release the inmates immediately. We also send letters to the addresses they provide, but unfortunately, many families do not respond or take responsibility.”
Laxman urged families of missing persons to contact the shelter, as some missing individuals may be housed there.
For inquiries, families may contact: +91 82778 02656