Karwar: Karnataka Home Minister Dr. G. Parameshwar has directed law enforcement agencies to enforce strict measures at the Goa border to prevent the illegal transportation of drugs and liquor into the state.
Chairing a police department progress review meeting at the District Superintendent of Police’s office in Karwar on Wednesday, the Home Minister emphasized that the state government has declared a war against narcotics, and police must remain vigilant to ensure that drugs do not infiltrate Karnataka through border areas.
He instructed all police station officers in Uttara Kannada district to frequently visit schools and colleges in their jurisdiction to educate students about the harmful effects of drug abuse. He further warned that if narcotics are found in any police station's jurisdiction, strict action will be taken against the responsible officers.
Road Accidents & Cyber Crime Concerns
The Home Minister also highlighted the alarming number of road accidents in the district, revealing that in the past 2.5 years, 589 people have lost their lives, while 3,899 others have been injured. Most accidents have occurred on National Highways, and authorities have been instructed to improve accident-prone zones and install necessary signboards in collaboration with the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI).
On cybercrime, Parameshwar noted that reported cases remain low in the district, urging officials to better understand the scope of cyber offenses and ensure that all police stations register cases promptly without unnecessary delays. He also instructed Public Prosecutors to expedite POCSO case trials, ensuring swift justice for victims.
Tackling Fake News & Illegal Home Stays
Expressing concern over fake news circulation, the Minister pointed out that Uttara Kannada ranks second in Karnataka for fake news distribution. He directed all police stations to strengthen social media monitoring cells to counter misinformation more effectively.
Furthermore, he instructed officials to gather precise data on legal and illegal home stays in the district. Strict action will be taken against unauthorized home stays, and police must verify whether licensed ones have proper liquor permits. He also ordered close monitoring of parties in home stays and resorts to curb drug consumption.
Fire Safety & Prison Relocation
The Home Minister announced that new fire service vehicles will soon be allocated to the Fire Department. Additionally, he proposed the relocation of the Karwar District Prison to a newly identified site near Ankola, directing officials to submit a formal proposal.
Strengthening Law Enforcement
Parameshwar emphasized that police officers are responsible for maintaining law and order in their respective jurisdictions. He urged them to strengthen patrol systems, conduct peace meetings during serious crimes, and take strict action against illegal money lending (meter interest), Matka gambling, and microfinance frauds. He assured officers that the government and legal system would support them in their duties.
The Minister also commended the police department for its swift response during the Shirur (Ankola taluk) landslide and Kali River bridge collapse incidents, acknowledging the leadership of SP M. Narayan in fostering strong coordination between law enforcement, elected representatives, and the public.
Key Officials in Attendance
The meeting was attended by Fisheries, Ports, and Inland Water Transport Minister & District In-Charge Mankal S. Vaidya, Karnataka State Marketing Consultant & Agencies Chairman Satish K. Sail, District Guarantee Schemes Implementation Authority Chairman Satish Naik, Western Zone IGP Amit Singh, Deputy Commissioner K. Lakshmi Priya, Canara Circle Chief Forest Conservator Vasanth Reddy, Zilla Panchayat CEO Ishwar Kandhu, and Additional SP Krishnamurthy, along with various police and district officials.