‘Police at Every Doorstep’ Initiative launched in Dakshina Kannada amid public confusion

‘Police at Every Doorstep’ Initiative launched in Dakshina Kannada amid public confusion

mangaloretoday.com

Mangaluru, October 13, 2025: A new government initiative titled ‘Mane Manege Police’ (Police at Every Doorstep) has been launched in Dakshina Kannada district to promote community-friendly policing and enhance public safety.

However, limited publicity and lack of public awareness have led to confusion and concern among local residents.

The initiative, touted as the first of its kind in India, aims to build trust between the police and the public by fostering direct engagement. As part of the programme, police officers visit every household to listen to grievances, raise awareness on legal issues, and collect vital information to aid in crime prevention and investigation.

While the programme’s goals are widely viewed as positive, its rollout in Dakshina Kannada has drawn criticism due to inadequate outreach.

Many residents have reported being caught off guard by unannounced visits from police personnel, leading to uncertainty and apprehension about the nature and purpose of the interactions.

In several suburban areas of Mangaluru, officers began house-to-house visits on Saturday. Some residents welcomed the initiative, but others expressed discomfort—particularly when officers asked questions about personal issues, drug-related activities, child abuse, cyber fraud, or digital arrest scams.

In some cases, concerned residents reached out to local community leaders or social workers for clarity, especially when police began taking photographs of their homes.

Officials say the initiative is designed not only to address grievances but also to build a stronger, safer community. Police have urged residents to speak openly about their concerns, assuring them of full support and confidentiality.

The programme faced similar challenges during its initial rollout in Bengaluru, where insufficient communication sparked criticism.

In Dakshina Kannada, citizens have echoed similar concerns and emphasized the need for an effective public awareness campaign before expanding the initiative further.

Many believe that with proper communication and community engagement, ‘Mane Manege Police’ has the potential to bridge the gap between the police and the public. Until then, however, the lack of clarity continues to hinder what could otherwise be a promising step toward community-oriented policing.