Prior to the government's decision, PUCL Karnataka had submitted a letter on 12 May to Mangaluru’s DCP (Law and Order), highlighting rising hate speeches and seeking details of actions taken
Published May 29, 2025 | 6:23 PM ⚊ Updated May 29, 2025 | 6:23 PM
Karnataka Home Minister G Parameshwara. (X)
Synopsis: In response to recent communal killings, the Karnataka government has formed a Special Action Force to maintain peace in Dakshina Kannada, Udupi, and Shivamogga. Home Minister G Parameshwar said the 248-member force, led by a DIG-rank officer, will work to prevent violence. Three companies will be deployed in the respective districts under the supervision of the Zonal IGP
In the wake of recent killings in Dakshina Kannada that has led to communal tensions, the Government of Karnataka passed an order on Thursday, 29 May, to form a Special Action Force to tackle communal tensions in districts including Dakshina Kannada, Udupi and Shivamogga.
Home Minister of Karnataka, G Parameshwar spoke to the media and said, “We have identified these three districts as vulnerable regions because of the killings that are taking place and due to communal tensions. Therefore, the Special Action Force will tackle and prevent such incidents from happening. We want to restore peace and harmony among communities in this region.”
As per the Government order, the Special Action Force will be headed by DIG rank officer and will consist of 248 police officials of different ranks. The newly established Special Action Force will consist of three companies, which will be established in Udupi district, Shivamogga and Dakshina Kannada districts, and the concerned Superintendent of Police and Commissioner of Police will provide the necessary infrastructure for deploying these forces, and the Special Action Force will be under the control of the Zonal IGP.
Parameshwar further ensured that DGP-IGP M A Saleem will make the necessary arrangements to set up this Special Action Force in Karnataka. He said, “These districts have good, intelligent and educated people. There are lot of opportunities for growth in terms of economy and other factors. Therefore, we want to put an end to the communal tensions and issues here.”
The order copy also stated that, “Dakshina Kannada and Udupi districts have formed an identity through their unique languages like Tulu, Konkani and their cultural heritage, which has fostered a deep sense of community and regional pride among the people. Dakshina Kannada district has traditionally seen steady economic growth with high levels of education and literacy. Despite this, communal sensitivities are currently increasing in Dakshina Kannada and Udupi districts, and even minor incidents have the potential to quickly escalate into major law and order challenges, and the region is witnessing repeated incidents of communal killings, hate speech, violence, etc.”
It further added, “These acts are making the Dakshina Kannada region more sensitive from a communal and administrative perspective and are stalling development activities, so proactive and sustained efforts are essential to bring about peace, social cohesion and the rule of law.”
It has also been stated that the Hon’ble Supreme Court, in its judgments in various cases, has directed the Central and State Governments to take appropriate action in cases of moral policing, hate speeches, violence, etc., and has provided several guidelines.
Besides the government taking a decision to form an action force, People’s Union for Civil Liberties Karnataka (PUCL) on 12 May had submitted a letter to DCP law and order (Mangaluru) to bring attention to hate speeches in the region and asked for what action was taken against it.
The letter read, “There has been a deafening silence on the part of the Mangalore Police with regards to the action they have taken against the hate speeches we shared with them or any other suo motu action that they have taken. They claim to have taken action, filed FIRs. But how many? Against whom? What action has been been taken against the individuals creating this environment of hatefilled lawlessness?”
The PUCL also mentioned that the Supreme Court in the Shaheen Abdullah v UOI order of 28.05.2023 unequivocally directed the police to take suo motu cognisance in cases of hate speech.
“This silence, inaction of the police has emboldened individuals to take another life. How many lives will be taken till the Mangalore police wakes up to address the growing communalisation in the region?” they questioned.
They also asked the role of District in charge Minister, Dinesh Gundu Rao to address the communal tensions, hatred and hate speeches in Dakshina Kannada.
“We urge the Commissioner of Police (Mangalore) and Dinesh Gundu Rao to answer. As the state and elected representatives, you are duty bound to cultivate a democracy where each individual can lead life with dignity and without fear,” it read.
(Edited by Ananya Rao)
