Mangaluru gets special action force to tackle communal discord: Dr. G. Parameshwara

Mangaluru: A Special Action Force (SAF) has been officially established in Mangaluru with the aim of curbing rising communal tensions in the region. The launch ceremony took place at the SCDCC Bank auditorium in the city and was inaugurated by Karnataka Home Minister Dr. G. Parameshwara.

Addressing the gathering, Dr Parameshwara described Dakshina Kannada as a culturally rich and unique district.

“This district has always been known for its progressive and cultured citizens. Literature, art, and culture continue to thrive here — and this is not an exaggeration. People from this region have made a name for themselves across India and beyond,” he noted.

He highlighted the district’s academic achievements, recalling that it was among the first in the country to establish private educational institutions, including the first private medical college in India.

However, expressing concern over recent incidents, Dr. Parameshwara said, “Despite this progress, there is a growing sense of hatred in certain pockets. If we don’t act swiftly, it could spread to other regions.”

Referring to a recent string of murders, the minister said they served as a trigger for establishing the SAF. “I had earlier instructed the then commissioner to form a task force. Although a small unit was created, it proved inadequate. The recent murders convinced me of the need for a dedicated force. Hence, the decision was made to form a Special Action Force within a week,” he said.

He also mentioned the state government’s decision to repurpose the existing Naxal Force, given that most Naxals in the region have surrendered. The same team is now being deployed for the SAF.

“This is India’s first special task force specifically created to counter communal discord. No other state has such a dedicated unit for this purpose,” the minister asserted.

Dr. Parameshwara clarified that the SAF has no other duty except to prevent and respond to communal violence. “This force exists solely to maintain peace. If peace and communal harmony prevail, this force will have no work. But if communal tensions rise, so will their responsibilities.”

He made a direct appeal to the people of the region: “I urge the residents of this area not to give the SAF any work — let peace prevail. If peace is maintained in this district, it will reflect across all of Karnataka.”

He further added that the force will not be limited to Mangaluru alone. “If needed, the number of personnel will be increased. While certain activities are rising in Dakshina Kannada, Udupi, and Shivamogga, the situation is different in other districts where such a force may not be necessary.”

Concluding his speech, the Home Minister expressed concern about the region’s economic future: “Investors are hesitant to put money in this district, and local families are sending their children away for education. I sincerely hope peace returns so this district can thrive again.”