It is important to see to it that technology is not misused by people. Controversial e-mails, SMSs and MMSs are likely to flare communal riots. Self regulation is important in this regard. The religious and political leaders should not deliver statements disturbing peace, said Deputy Commissioner A B Ibrahim.
He was speaking at a peace committee meeting convened at DC’s office in Mangalore on Friday, to discuss the issues related to the maintenance of peace and order in the district in the wake of the upcoming Lok Sabha elections.
The DC further said that as the Parliamentary elections are nearing, incidents of tearing banners and hoardings, especially in rural areas are increasing. The date for the Lok Sabha elections is likely to be declared in the second week of March. The DC requested the public not to pay heed to the rumours and inform the police control room or district administration control room in case of any unpleasant incidents.
Kannada Sahitya Parishat district President Pradeep Kumar Kalkura requested to give exemption to banners and hoardings of non-political such as religious programmes, during the implementation of code of conduct. He added that awareness programmes need to be conducted by the district administration among general public on voting.Panambur Beach Development Corporation CEO Yathish Baikampadi opined that it is very important for the department of police to win the confidence of public during elections. The department staff should be provided training so as to tackle the emergency situations, efficiently and peacefully.
Congress leader Ismail Kodijal said that during riots, 60 per cent of innocents are being arrested and 307 section is imposed on them, which is not right. Religious leaders should be prevented from giving provocative speeches, he added.
Speaking on the district bandh called by some organisations on March 3, Badriya College Principal Ismail said that the bandh will adversely affect the students as examinations are scheduled. He said meeting has been conducted towards the contingent measures to be taken. Deputy Commissioner said that he has talked to the oragnisations, which have called for the bandh and requested them to conduct the bundh symbolically, without affecting the normal-day life in general and examinations in particular. Measures will be taken to prevent untoward incidents during the bandh. Nobody should try to closedown the shops forcefully, the DC added.
Nithin Kumar of BJP alleged that banners of some political parties are displayed within the City Corporation limits, though the rules do not allow doing so. The MCC should remove the banners, he said. Credai President Pushparaj Jain suggested convening peace committee meeting once in 15 days till election. The DC said that along with conducting fortnightly meetings in the district level, the meetings will also be held in taluk-level.
ADC K Dayanand and Superintendent of Police Shanthanu Sinha were present.
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