Special Task Force Inaugurated in Mangaluru to Curb Communal Conflicts
Mangaluru: In a move aimed at maintaining peace and harmony in the coastal districts of Dakshina Kannada (D.K.), Udupi, and Shivamogga, Home Minister Dr. G. Parameshwar inaugurated a specialized task force dedicated to curbing communal conflicts. The inauguration ceremony took place at the Police Commissioner’s office, followed by the inauguration of police residential quarters at a public function held at the SCDCC Bank auditorium in the city.
Dr. Parameshwar emphasized that the task force’s jurisdiction would initially be limited to the aforementioned three districts, asserting that its necessity stemmed from the unique challenges faced by this region. However, he clarified that the task force’s mandate could be extended to encompass the entire state should the need arise.
“For the first time in the country, a special task force has been formed in our state to suppress communal conflicts,” Dr. Parameshwar stated during the inauguration. “Its purpose is to establish peace and rebuild communal harmony in this region. If peace prevails in this region, there will be peace in the entire state. Therefore, may these religious conflicts end here with this force.” He expressed optimism that the task force would not be required in other districts and voiced his hope that its presence would not be a long-term necessity even within its designated area.
The Home Minister acknowledged Dakshina Kannada’s rich cultural heritage and its significant contributions to literature, culture, and art in the state. However, he also noted the rise of societal discord in the region. He explained that the decision to establish the Special Task Force was prompted by the realization that the spread of hatred, if left unchecked, could potentially affect other parts of the state. Dr. Parameshwar referenced his earlier suggestion to establish a “Communal Control Force” and his subsequent visit to the district during a period of communal killings, which solidified the need for a dedicated task force.
Drawing upon the existing expertise within the Anti-Naxal Force, which has seen a reduction in activity due to Naxal surrenders, the government has repurposed and retrained its personnel to form the backbone of the Special Task Force. Officers and staff from the Anti-Naxal Force have already undergone specialized training in conflict suppression, equipping them to address the challenges posed by individuals and groups inciting religious ideologies and fomenting societal unrest. Dr. Parameshwar expressed confidence in the task force’s ability to successfully execute its mandate.
Addressing the issue of societal unrest, Dr. Parameshwar noted a shift in approach. “So far, a soft approach has been taken against those who cause unrest in society. But our words have not reached their ears. For that reason, force is now being used.” He appealed to the public to maintain peace and communal harmony, thereby minimizing the need for the task force’s intervention. He cautioned that continued unrest would only lead to an increase in the task force’s workload.
The Special Task Force will initially consist of three platoons, comprising a total of 248 personnel. Dr. M.A. Saleem, State Police Chief and Inspector General of Police, affirmed the government’s commitment to augment the force’s strength if necessary. The overarching objective, according to the Home Minister, is the restoration of peace in the coastal region.
Dr. Saleem, in his introductory remarks, highlighted the unique nature of the task force, stating that it is the first of its kind in the country, specifically focused on suppressing communal clashes in Dakshina Kannada, Udupi, and Shivamogga. He expressed his hope that it would serve as a model for the rest of the nation. He also lauded the state government for its swift action in establishing the force within a month and a half.
The event was attended by Dakshina Kannada District In-charge Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao, MLAs Ashok Kumar Rai, Manjunath Bhandari, Ivan D’Souza, Additional Director General of Police S. Murugan, District Collector Mullai Muhilan, SP Dr. Arun Kumar, ZP CEO Dr. Anand, various academy and corporation chairpersons, former ministers, and MPs.
Western Zone IGP Amit Singh welcomed the gathering, and Mangalore City Police Commissioner Sudhir Reddy delivered the vote of thanks.