Amid a spate of communal incidents in Mangaluru and surrounding areas—including mob lynchings, revenge killings, and multiple stabbings—the Karnataka government has transferred several senior police officials in an effort to restore public trust and maintain law and order in the coastal region.
Transfers Prompted by Local Sentiment
Karnataka Home Minister Dr. G. Parameshwara confirmed on Friday that the decision to transfer the Mangaluru Police Commissioner, Superintendent of Police (SP) of Mangaluru, and Udupi SP was taken in response to growing public demand.
“During my previous visit, there was a clear call from the community to replace certain officers. At the time, we felt it wasn’t appropriate to act immediately. However, with tensions escalating, we’ve decided action is now necessary,” said Parameshwara while addressing the media.
Key Police Reshuffle in Coastal Districts
Mangaluru Police Commissioner Anupam Agarwal (2008 batch IPS) has been replaced by Sudheer Kumar Reddy (2010 batch IPS), who previously served as DIG, Intelligence.
Arun K. (2014 batch IPS) has assumed charge as the new SP of Mangaluru, replacing N. Yathish.
Hariram Shankar has been appointed as SP of Udupi.
The reshuffle follows the murder of Abdul Raheem, reportedly in retaliation for the recent killing of Hindu activist Suhas Shetty, fueling communal unrest in the region.
Raheem’s Murder Triggers Political Fallout
Abdul Raheem, a goods vehicle operator and mosque secretary, was brutally killed by a gang of 15 near Bantwal town, sparking widespread outrage in the Muslim community. Allegations suggest his murder was incited by inflammatory remarks following Shetty’s death.
In protest, several minority leaders in Mangaluru publicly resigned en masse from the Congress party on May 29 at Shaadi Mahal, in front of thousands. Their resignations came despite efforts by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah to persuade them to remain.
Government Vows Strong Action, Forms Task Force
Minister Parameshwara assured that strict measures would be taken to curb further violence. “We will not tolerate any attempts to disturb peace. Mangaluru is a model district in education and economic progress, and we intend to protect that legacy,” he stated.
He announced the formation of a special task force to monitor and control communal tensions in Mangaluru, Udupi, and Shivamogga. The task force will focus on:
Curbing provocative speech
Enforcing legal action under existing laws
Monitoring harmful content on social media
Probe Underway Into Underlying Causes
The Home Minister also confirmed that an investigation is ongoing to determine the underlying causes—political or otherwise—of the recent communal flare-ups. “Regardless of the motives, those responsible will face strict legal action,” he said.
Prohibitory Orders & Arrests
Prohibitory orders have been imposed in parts of Mangaluru until the evening of May 30. Meanwhile, four suspects have been arrested, and an FIR has been filed against 15 individuals in connection with Abdul Raheem’s murder.
Government Reassures Coastal Karnataka
Responding to concerns about regional neglect, Parameshwara emphasized: “No region will be ignored—be it the coast or north Karnataka. The coastal belt will receive the attention and support it deserves.”
