Operation Suraksha: Provide free access to beaches, ensure security says Yatish Baikampadi

Mangaluru: The Mangaluru Police begun Operation Suraksha to prevent illegal gatherings, activities and unnecessary traffic jams in public places under its jurisdiction.

On the night of Thursday, January 7, 70 people were taken into custody by the police in Tannirubavi, Surathkal, Someshwara and Panambur beaches which comes under the jurisdiction of Mangaluru Police Commissionerate.

It was also reported that the police have also asked the beach managements to close the beaches at 6 pm every day.

Many visitors come to the beach after sunset and some stay on the beach until 10 pm. Others come at night for a post-dinner walk while some come to enjoy the moonlight. Additionally, locals sometimes spend the entire night at the beach. The police operation has created anxiety and confusion among them.

“There should be free access to the beaches at night. The police department instead should take steps to ensure the safety of the public by preventing illegal activities,” Yatish Baikampadi, a former beach manager, said.

Traders and other commercial establishment owners near the beaches are of the opinion that beach tourism will be hit by blocking access to beaches after dark.

It is not wrong for the police to conduct safety operations, but it is not right to send people off the beach at 6 or 7 pm. Police should patrol and take action if there is any illegal activity, the beachside business operators added.

“Marijuana and alcohol consumption were found at night on four main beaches. Such illegal gatherings also lead to many criminal acts. The present operation is being carried out to provide safety to the public. Staying at the beach till 8-9 pm will not be allowed,” N Shasikumar, Mangaluru’s Commissioner of Police said.

“Public will not be allowed to access beaches at night. The police have acted in the interest of the safety of the public,” said Manikya, Deputy Director of the Dakshina Kannada district Tourism Department.