Udupi: Police Sub Inspector of Kota Station in Udupi district allegedly caned members of the Koraga tribal community who were attending a Mehendi (pre-wedding) function at a colony. The police inspector allegedly thrashed the people including the bridegroom at Kotatattu on Monday night.
As Kotatattu is the place from where Karnataka state social welfare minister Kota Srinivas Poojary hails, the video clippings of the incident went viral on social media.
“Somebody complained to the police about the loud music and the officials came to the house. The people have assured that the music will be stopped by 11 PM. But the police Sub Inspector Santhosh lathi charged the people participating in the ritual. The wedding is on Wednesday and many have been injured during the police caning. It is usual to organize pre-wedding celebrations. Why did the Sub Inspector storm into the function and beaten up people. The SI and other police personnel should be immediately suspended,” said Sunder Master, Dalit movement leader.
The leaders met senior police officials demanding action against the Sub Inspector.
Acting immediately the police department has ordered an inquiry into the incident. It will be led by the Deputy Superintendent of Police.
Meanwhile, the Sub Inspector and six personnel have been shifted to the SP office.
SP Vishnuvardhan told reporters that the police received a complaint that the loud music continued even after 10 pm based on which the SI visited the spot.
“If the allegations against the police officials are true, then we will take necessary action,” SP assured.
Meanwhile, Minister Kota Srinivas Poojary has strongly condemned the incident. He demanded action against the police officials involved in the incident.
“I know the family and the place. They are innocent. Strict action should be taken against the police who have unnecessarily harassed the people,” he said.
The Minister spoke to the Inspector General of Police (Western Range) and other senior officials and said that the government cannot tolerate such incidents.
