Mangaluru: Police commissioner S Murugan held a press meet at his office here, on March 1.
Addressing the mediapersons, Murugan said that tight security has been made for the smooth functioning of the Hindu Samajotsava. He further said that 26 sector magistrates and 195 assistant sector magistrates have been appointed. A liquor ban has been imposed from 6:00 am on March 1 to 6:00 am on March 2. Two hundred video cameras will be used for recording the entire programme. 500 CCTV cameras have been installed in the district in sensitive areas.
In Mangaluru city, we have deployed 2000 police personnel. In the entire district, we have deployed 4000 police personnel along with the officers. 17 KSRP platoons, 10 DAR platoons and 6 RAF companies have also been deployed.
Murugan also urged the people of Mangaluru to co-operate with the police for the smooth functioning of the programme. “Some hardships will be faced by the common people because in some places we have closed the shops. We are constantly moving around and are being alert. The programme will end by 5:30 pm. It is a big challenge after the programme to see that the people reach home safely. We have taken all the preventive measures. Police may be strict in implementing the rules, they have been working hard for many days without proper rest. The people are requested to cooperate with the police for the smooth functioning of the programme.”
When asked about the permission given for the Hindu Samajotsava even after being aware of the fact that Mangaluru is a communally sensitive area, Murugan said, “In a democratic set up, we cannot stop anyone from organizing programmes. It is our duty to give permission and see that there will not be any problems. It is also the duty of the organizers to see that no untoward incidents take place during such programmes.”
When asked about the provocative banners put up by the organizers in many places, Murugan said that wherever we have seen such banners, they have been removed.
When asked about the continuous accidents at the Nanthur Junction and what measures have been taken in this regard, Murugan said that technical problem is the major cause. “We have discussed the issue with the National Highway authorities. We have also deployed police constables 24X7 for the smooth flow of traffic at the junction. Road users should also have personal commitment while driving. If we think of others while driving, we can avoid many accidents,” he said.