M'luru: Three held for moral policing

Three persons were held by the police for allegedly accosting a couple near Good Time Short Eats Shop in Hampanakatte.

The accused is identified as Sandesh, son of Devaraj, a resident of Bantwal. Two of his associates — Prashanth (31 yrs) son of Anand Poojary, and Ronith (31 yrs) son of Sagya Raj have also been held.

Case details:

Two residents of Kerala, a boy, and a girl, were reportedly stopped and questioned about their identity by  Sandesh.

The situation escalated as Sandesh, raised his voice, demanding to see their identification cards on the pretext of checking if they belonged to different communities. The couple, understanding the gravity of the situation, sought refuge in an auto-rickshaw, attempting to leave the scene. However, Sandesh persisted, even scolding the auto driver in an attempt to halt their departure.

Prompt intervention from other individuals at the scene prevented further escalation, dispersing the gathering. Sandesh, along with his associates, eventually moved away from the location. Subsequently, the couple, conversing in Malayalam, requested the auto driver to transport them to the Railway Station.

Following the incident, the auto driver filed a complaint, leading to the registration of a case at North Police Station under Crime No. 148/2023, citing violations under sections 341 and 504 of the Indian Penal Code.