Dalit leaders seek probe into foreigners illegally residing in city

Mangaluru: Following recent arrests of Bangladesh nationals in Udupi, Dalit leaders have raised concerns over the possible presence of large numbers of illegal foreign residents in Mangaluru.

During a grievance meeting held at the city police commissioner’s office here on Sunday, leaders urged the police department to investigate these suspicions thoroughly.

At the meeting chaired by DCPs Sidharth Goyal and BP Dinesh Kumar, Dalit Leader Sadashiv Urvastore noted that thousands of migrant workers, reportedly from Bihar and Assam, come to Mangaluru and the surrounding districts for labour.

He expressed concerns that some workers might actually be from Bangladesh or other countries, especially from regions bordering West Bengal. He alleged that agents arrange fake Aadhaar Cards and temporary sheds for these workers. He warned that any potential incidents involving these groups could damage the city’s reputation and urged police to check the areas housing these labourers.

DCP Sidharth Goyal responded by stating that regular inspections are already conducted on various groups, such as balloon vendors and factory workers, with fingerprint scans included in the verification process. He stressed the importance of citizens ensuring mandatory police verification before renting out houses or properties.

Premnath Ballalbagh requested an increase in ICU beds at Wenlock District Hospital to better accommodate emergency cases, particularly those from economically disadvantaged communities. Patients from nearby districts, such as Hassan, Kodagu and Chikkamagaluru, frequently seek emergency treatment at the hospital. Due to limited ICU space, critically ill patients often have to be placed in general wards, which can delay treatment and, in some cases, lead to fatalities. DCP Goyal assured that a formal request would be forwarded to the relevant departments.

Further, it is alleged that Dr BR Ambedkar Bhavan in Urvastore has become inaccessible to the Dalit community for its events, despite being a facility meant for their use. Girish Kumar questioned the effectiveness of such a facility, if even govt-reserved bookings are denied.

In Kudkori Hills near Kankanady, an unknown individual has been reportedly stealing items, including women’s undergarments, from the Dalit colony. The suspect, believed to be armed, has evaded capture despite local youths being on alert. Anil Kankanady urged police to take immediate action.

Correspondence with Passport Seva Kendra

The police department has written to the Regional Passport Seva Kendra regarding a recent incident where police clearance was mistakenly granted to an applicant with a criminal record. DCP Sidharth Goyal clarified that due to an oversight, the applicant’s criminal history was not updated during verification. Upon discovery, police promptly informed the Passport Seva Kendra with updated records.

Courtesy : TOI

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