Hariram Shankar takes charge as Udupi SP, vows strict action against communal discord and cybercrime

Hariram Shankar takes charge as Udupi SP, vows strict action against communal discord and cybercrime

Mangalore Today News Network

Udupi, May 31, 2025: Hariram Shankar officially took charge as the new Superintendent of Police (SP) of Udupi district on Friday morning. The outgoing SP, Dr. Arun K., handed over responsibilities to him.

Addressing the media after assuming office, Hariram Shankar emphasized the importance of maintaining communal harmony in the district. He stated that no opportunity should be given for any disturbances that could affect communal peace. Citizens should work in coordination with the police to prevent such incidents. He urged the public to immediately inform him or any police officer if they have any relevant information. He also requested people to promptly share details about any illegal activities with the police.

Hariram Shankar mentioned that he is already familiar with Udupi district, having earlier served as Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) in Kundapur for about a year. He has also served in Hassan and Mangaluru, experiences which have helped him gain valuable expertise in law and order management.

He called on the public to refrain from participating in any clashes or riots and to help preserve peace in the district. He encouraged citizens to collaborate with the police and said that anyone with urgent or significant information can contact him directly or reach out to the police control room. His contact number is available to the public.

Praising the work of outgoing SP Dr. Arun, Hariram said he would prioritize continuing the effective law and order management established by his predecessor. He firmly stated that activities disturbing communal harmony, acts of rowdyism, hooliganism, or illegal behavior will not be tolerated. Strict action will be taken against such actions.

He assured that the tight administrative control maintained by Dr. Arun would be continued, and he sought the cooperation of the public in this regard. He highlighted his experience and familiarity with sensitive areas like Gangolli and Kodi in Kundapur taluk and expressed confidence that this would help him manage law and order effectively in the region.

Hariram Shankar expressed belief that his previous experience as ASP in Kundapur would aid him in maintaining peace and harmony in the district as SP. He said he is easily accessible to the public and urged everyone to be vigilant against provocative speeches or social media posts that may incite communal tensions. Legal action will be taken against such content, and two officers will be assigned to monitor this at every police station. He warned that strict measures will be taken against those involved in such activities.

Each police station has two designated officers to monitor online activities. The police are tracking not only those who post provocative or sensitive content but also those who share or engage with such content. He said that fake accounts used to spread hate or incite unrest are also being identified and acted upon.

Hariram Shankar also pledged to take appropriate measures to curb the rising cybercrime and drug abuse in the district. He announced that a separate cybercrime cell will be upgraded to be led by an ACP-rank officer to enable swift action. Public awareness campaigns about online crimes will also be initiated.

On the issue of traffic problems in the district, he said that, with the support of the DIG and IGP, who have conducted an in-depth study of the traffic system, technology-based solutions would be introduced. These measures will help manage manpower shortages and address daily traffic challenges more effectively.

Dr. Arun K., who served as the SP of Udupi district for nearly 20 months, has been transferred by the state government to serve as the SP of Kannada district. The government had appointed Hariram Shankar, who was previously serving as the SP in the Intelligence Division, as his successor. He officially assumed charge on Friday.

Hariram Shankar hails from Thrissur, Kerala, and holds a degree in Mechanical Engineering from NIT Calicut. He secured the 145th rank in the UPSC exam in his fifth attempt in 2016, earning a position in the Indian Police Service (IPS), his desired service.

He has previously served as ASP in Belagavi and Kundapur sub-divisions, as DCP in Mangaluru, and as SP in Hassan.