Successful elections with cooperation from the community: SP Ravikante Gowda

Mangaluru: Superintendent of Police B.R. Ravikanthe Gowda took charge just four months before the legislative assembly election dates were announced and though new to the city, he played a prominent role in the peaceful conduction of the election in the city. The people of Mangaluru have openly appreciated the actions of the officer in conducting a comfortable election without giving scope to any untoward incident or confusion.

Previously, Ravikanthe Gowda was stationed as SP at Belgavi and when he came to Mangaluru, there were some instances of clashes had taken place. Obviously, there were many questions he had to answer. But, SP Ravikanthe Gowda is happy about successfully doing his duty and here is an extract of his conversation with Ganesh Mavonji of Udayavani, translated from Kannada by Aaron Dmello.

What is your opinion on managing the election?

I am truly happy that the elections culminated peacefully in the district. The honour of this success goes to the police staff and the election officers. The leaders of the parties who controlled their party workers from not going overboard with their behavior is also a reason for the success. I thank everyone for cooperating with the successful conduction of the elections.

What are the problems that you faced during the elections?

There is no problem that arose from the district four legislative assembly constituencies that is mentionable. Since Bantwal taluk is a sensitive constituency, increased watch was required here. Though one or two untoward incidents took place, the police were successful in controlling the situation at its beginning itself. In Bantwal, after the counting of votes was done, a few members of a political party attacked an auto-rickshaw driver and damaged the glass pane at the rear of the rickshaw, claiming that he had supported another party. Immediately the police rushed to the location, arrested one person and successfully prevented the situation from spreading. When compared to other districts, it is proved that unrest and riot is less here.

What is your opinion on the experience of successfully managing the election?

The people of the district have shown that they respect law and act within the limits of the law. It is a proud matter to say that police have a role in the successful  election.