Activist Flags Plight of Marginalised Communities at Police Grievance Meet

Mangalore Today News Network

Mangaluru, July 27, 2025: Social activist Shekhar Laila raised multiple issues affecting marginalised communities in Belthangady at the SC/ST grievances redressal meeting organised by the Mangaluru City and Dakshina Kannada District Police on Sunday.

Laila highlighted the struggles of around 200 Malekudiya families across nine villages in Kudremukh National Park, who lack electricity and road access. He also pointed to the plight of six to seven Koraga families in Atrinje, Sulkeri, forced to cross a river on a wooden log during the monsoon due to a poorly located bridge.

Superintendent of Police Dr Arun K assured that the issues would be verified and necessary action taken. He also responded to reports of a near-tragedy in Savanalu, where two people were nearly swept away while crossing a flooded stream, promising to propose footbridge construction where needed.

The activist further drew attention to 18 contract ‘D’ group staff at Belthangady Taluk Hospital, who reportedly receive delayed salaries and are denied leave. The SP said he would take up the matter with the District Health Officer.

A Dalit representative raised the lack of road connectivity for 13 Scheduled Caste families in Nirde and Ajakala, Balnadu, Puttur taluk. The SP assured he would escalate the issue to the Deputy Commissioner and District Legal Services Authority.

Concerns were also raised about substance abuse on the premises of a government school in Vamadapadavu. The SP said a night beat point would be set up and regular patrolling arranged.

On complaints about a sand and laterite shortage, Dr Arun K clarified that the issue is not due to supply constraints but mafia interference pushing for CRZ sand. He noted that sand blocks are available through the Sand Bazaar app and said police would not obstruct lawful construction but would act against illegal activities.