Bhatkal: The ongoing political interference at the Bhatkal Police Station and the targeting of officers who are dutifully and sincerely performing their responsibilities suggest that all is not well within the department.

It is reported that about a month and a half ago, a Congress leader informed the officers at Bhatkal Police Station about the illegal sale of liquor brought from Goa, along with other brands, allegedly being sold at a hotel in Shirali. Following instructions from higher authorities, Police Sub Inspector (PSI) Renu Gowda conducted a raid on the hotel. However, it is alleged that upon learning of the raid, a prominent political leader directed PSI Renu Gowda to immediately halt the operation. Despite the political pressure, PSI Renu Gowda, acting as a dutiful officer, refused to follow the politician’s orders and confiscated the illegal liquor, bringing it back to the police station.

It is believed that this action angered the politician, who subsequently orchestrated a way to prevent PSI Renu Gowda from attending to his duties at the town police station from the next day onward. This is further supported by the fact that since the raid, PSI Renu Gowda has not been seen at the station, only visiting the DySP office briefly before leaving. His absence raises questions, with many speculating that he is being sidelined and is under significant mental stress, which has confined him to his residence.

Some suggest that while it was the Congress leader who initially urged the raid on the hotel, a representative from the same party later intervened to halt the operation. It is disheartening to learn that the dedicated police officer was subsequently punished for performing his duty.

Meanwhile, a separate case has emerged involving Murdeshwar PSI Manjunath, who was suspended for promoting prostitution and gambling at the tourist center, coupled with dereliction of duty. It is alleged that he has close ties to a political leader and is confident that his suspension will be lifted within days, allowing him to be reassigned to a nearby police station. Those familiar with the situation believe that if PSI Manjunath is not reinstated in Murdeshwar, he may soon be posted at the Honnavar police station, which is nearby, due to political influence.

Given the current state of affairs at the Bhatkal Police Department, the unfolding situation suggests clear evidence of unwarranted political interference, which is hampering the integrity of law enforcement.