Bhatkal: Authorities in Bhatkal have intensified precautionary and security measures ahead of Bakrid celebrations scheduled for May 28, with all taluk-level officials directed to remain stationed at their headquarters until May 30 to ensure the maintenance of peace and public order.
The directive was issued during a peace committee meeting chaired by Assistant Commissioner Mahesh at the Assistant Commissioner’s office. Addressing the meeting, he said elaborate arrangements had been made across the taluk in view of the festival, and officials had been instructed to remain available at their respective headquarters as a preventive measure.
He further stated that liquor outlets would remain closed during the festival period in accordance with the Deputy Commissioner’s directions. Authorities have also been instructed to ensure proper garbage collection and waste disposal to maintain hygiene and public cleanliness.
Speaking at the meeting, Police Inspector Divakar warned that strict action would be taken against individuals spreading rumours or inflammatory content on social media platforms that could disturb communal harmony.
He noted that two to three sensitive incidents had recently been reported in Bhatkal, raising concerns over the circulation of unverified and misleading messages online. The police department, he said, was closely monitoring social media activity to prevent the spread of misinformation.
The officer further stated that people found loitering unnecessarily on roads after midnight would be questioned and action taken where necessary. He also warned that individuals dumping garbage and waste indiscriminately would be identified and penalised.
During the meeting, former vice-president of the Bhatkal Municipal Council Altaf Kharuri raised concerns over frequent power outages even before the onset of the monsoon. He said the public was facing hardship due to recurring electricity failures, particularly during the Eid season, and urged the taluk administration to take necessary measures to prevent disruptions in power supply.
Additional SP Krishnamurthy, DySP Girish, Tahsildar Nagendra Kolashetti, Municipal Commissioner Babasaheb Mane, HESCOM AEE Manjunath, Bhatkal Rural Police Inspector Venkatesh, Murdeshwar Police Inspector Jagadish and other officials were present at the meeting.
Representatives of various organisations and community leaders, including members of Bhatkal Tanzeem and others, also attended the meeting and submitted suggestions regarding precautionary measures and public arrangements ahead of the festival.