MANGALURU, 9 JULY

Karnataka Home Minister G Parameshwara on Wednesday said the law and order situation in the state, including Dakshina Kannada district, is stable and improving because of strict enforcement measures and the creation of special task forces.

Speaking to reporters after offering prayers at Kukke Subrahmanya temple in this district, Parameshwara said, "At a recent conference chaired by the Chief Minister (Siddaramaiah), we reviewed crime trends across the state. Crime rates have declined, and law enforcement is being taken seriously, especially in sensitive districts like Dakshina Kannada."

Maintaining peace in coastal regions is critical to fostering economic growth and job creation. "If peace prevails here, industries and employment opportunities will increase," he said.

The minister informed that recruitment is underway to address personnel shortages in the police department. "Orders have been issued for 515 sub-inspectors, and another 402 appointments will follow. There are 10,000–15,000 vacancies (in police department) which we plan to fill," he said.

Responding to local demands, he said the government would consider increasing the number of 112 emergency vehicles and examine proposals regarding new police outposts and the relocation of the SP's office from Mangaluru to Puttur.