Mangaluru Police Commissioner Issues Stern Warning Over Social Media Posts
Mangaluru City Police Commissioner Sudheer Kumar Reddy has delivered a clear message to the public. He warned that stringent legal action will be taken against individuals who share personal details of any Indian citizen on social media while falsely claiming they are Bangladeshi nationals based on mere suspicion.
Reference to a Specific Incident
The commissioner specifically referred to a provocative message circulating on social media. This message targeted a canteen in the city run by Bengalis, known as 'Bengali Canteen'. The post was shared within the 'Hindu Geleyara Balaga' WhatsApp group. Commissioner Reddy expressed concern that such messages can incite attacks against innocent people.
"We have already witnessed one such attack on a migrant worker in Mangaluru who is an Indian citizen," the commissioner stated. "The police took immediate action in that case."
Police Verification and Findings
Regarding the message about the Bengali Canteen, the police conducted a thorough background check. "We noticed this message posted in some groups and investigated the background of this family," Commissioner Reddy explained. "Our verification clearly shows they purchased property in their own name back in 2014. There is absolutely no evidence to suggest they are not Indian citizens."
Proper Channel for Reporting Suspicions
The commissioner outlined the correct procedure for reporting suspicions. "If anyone has genuine information about a person they suspect might be from Bangladesh, they are welcome to provide that information formally," he said. Citizens can report their concerns at local police stations, to Assistant Commissioners of Police (ACPs), or directly to the commissioner's office.
"We will ensure a proper verification of antecedents is conducted," he assured. "If the person is found to be staying illegally, they will be prosecuted and deported according to the law."
Strong Warning Against False Accusations
Commissioner Reddy issued a firm warning against making false accusations. He stated that action will be taken under the law against anyone who shares details of an Indian citizen, labeling them as Bangladeshi based only on suspicion or for any other reason. This also applies to those who spread messages in a manner that could lead to attacks on individuals.
"FIRs have already been registered against two individuals for posting such messages," he revealed. "They will be arrested shortly."
Clarification on Legal Procedures
The commissioner emphasized that the law applies equally to all. "Anyone found to be staying illegally in the country will face prosecution and deportation without exception, but only after following the proper legal procedure," he clarified.
He also made it clear that taking the law into one's own hands is a crime. "Attacking anyone, including those who may be staying illegally, is a criminal offense under the law," Commissioner Reddy stated. "Such attackers will also be booked and prosecuted."
In his concluding remarks, the commissioner reinforced the rule of law. "The law exists for everyone. We have people here who show no respect for it. Action will be taken against them too, strictly in accordance with the laws of the state," he warned.
