Karnataka govt will bring in new law to regulate online betting, gambling: Home Minister G Parameshwara

Speaking to reporters, he said, a committee of senior officials and industry representatives has been constituted and it has been given a month's time to submit a draft of the proposed bill.

Mandya (Karnataka): Home Minister G Parameshwara said that the government will introduce a new law to curb drug menace and online betting.

He was participating in the progress review meeting at the Superintendent of Police's office, in Mandya, on Wednesday. He reviewed the law and order situation in the district and issued directions to the officials.

"There are reports that betting rackets are on a rise in Mandya district, especially in places like K R Pet, Basralu and Koppa region. The patrolling team should gather information and take stern action against such people", said Parameshwara. 

"There are allegations that our people are collaborating with those involved in illegal sand extraction in the district. The senior officers should keep a strict vigil on this. I will not tolerate, if the Police are found conniving with the accused. If this continues, strict action would be taken against them," the Home Minister warned.

The Police department should listen to the problems of the people belonging to the Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe communities and resolve their issues. It is the duty of the Police to protect those who have been meted out injustice. They should stand by the people, who come to the police station, seeking justice. This should be considered seriously, he advised.

Our government is committed to protect and provide justice to the poor and oppressed. It is not right to see caste, religion and party in such matters. Police is the face of the government. If the police work efficiently, the government gets a good name. The police department should know what is happening at the grassroots level, he said.

'Goondas should fear law'

The Home Minister said, "Police means law. The goondas should fear the law. It is not possible to know about the incidents, if the police department limits itself in patrolling on two-wheelers. They should understand the responsibility assigned to them. They should be in constant contact with the local people and gather information".

DIG (Southern Range) M B Boralingaiah, Superintendent of Police Mallikarjun Baladandi, Additional SP and DySPs participated.