Published Jun 07, 2026 | 8:08 PM ⚊ Updated Jun 07, 2026 | 8:08 PM
The order mandates the formation of a dedicated “Rowdy Squad” in every police circle under the supervision of the Circle Inspector.
Synopsis: The Karnataka Police will constitute dedicated ‘rowdy squads’ at police circle and station levels across the State in what is among the first major policy measures under Home Minister Priyank Kharge. The squads will monitor rowdy sheeters and other anti-social elements, conduct surveillance, gather intelligence and initiate preventive action under existing legal provisions.
In perhaps one of the first major policy measures following the assumption of office by Karnataka Home Minister Priyank Kharge, the Karnataka Police has ordered the constitution of dedicated squads at the police circle and police station levels across the State to curb rowdyism and other anti-social activities.
A circular issued by Director General and Inspector General of Police (DG&IGP) Dr MA Saleem on 5 June directed all Commissioners of Police, Range Inspectors General and Deputy Inspectors General of Police, and Superintendents of Police to establish the squads and submit compliance reports within seven days.
The move follows deliberations at a meeting chaired by Chief Minister DK Shivakumar on 4 June.
“In a democratic society, curbing rowdy activities is essential to maintaining law and order, safeguarding citizens’ rights, and ensuring a peaceful environment,” the circular said.
“Recognizing the adverse impact of rowdyism, the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Karnataka emphasized the need to eradicate it across the State and directed that stringent measures be taken against rowdy elements.”
The circular noted that the Karnataka Police Manual provides for the identification, registration, surveillance, and close monitoring of rowdy elements for crime prevention and the maintenance of public order. It further noted that Order No. 1059 of the Karnataka Police Manual defines rowdies and mandates the maintenance of confidential Rowdy Registers at police stations for surveillance and preventive action.
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The order mandates the formation of a dedicated “Rowdy Squad” in every police circle under the supervision of the Circle Inspector. Police stations headed by Police Inspectors will also have separate station-level Rowdy Squads.
The composition of the squads will be determined by the concerned Sub-Divisional Police Officer or Assistant Commissioner of Police based on local requirements and prevailing crime conditions.
The squads will verify criminal cases registered against individuals and initiate the opening of new rowdy sheets wherever applicable. The circular warned that lapses in performing this duty would attract disciplinary action against the responsible officer.
The squads have also been tasked with maintaining updated information on rowdy sheeters and anti-social elements; conducting regular surveillance of their activities and associations in accordance with the law; identifying emerging rowdy elements, gangs, and criminal groups; and gathering actionable intelligence.
Other responsibilities include monitoring habitual offenders who affect public peace and tranquillity; initiating preventive measures under provisions such as the Preventive Action Register (PAR), the Goonda Act, the Karnataka Control of Organised Crimes Act (KCOCA), and externment procedures; and ensuring the execution of warrants, bonds, and other lawful proceedings against rowdy elements.
The circular further directed the squads to maintain close coordination with beat staff and local intelligence sources, and to conduct special drives and surprise checks in vulnerable areas.
To ensure accountability, Circle Inspectors and Station House Officers have been instructed to review the functioning of “Rowdy Squads” every fortnight, while Sub-Divisional Police Officers and Assistant Commissioners of Police will assess their performance during monthly crime meetings. Unit heads have also been directed to periodically review and update all rowdy sheets in accordance with the Karnataka Police Manual and existing instructions.
The police have also mandated documentation and reporting mechanisms. Separate registers are to be maintained to record the activities and achievements of the squads, while monthly reports detailing surveillance, preventive actions, execution of warrants, review of rowdy sheets, and other enforcement measures are to be submitted through proper channels in the form of demi-official letters.
Reiterating a “zero-tolerance approach” towards rowdyism, the circular stated: “Any instance of intimidation, extortion, forcible collection, public disorder, gang activity, or other unlawful conduct by rowdy elements shall be dealt with promptly and firmly in accordance with law.”
