Udupi police assault allegation sparks outrage; Billava community demands action

Udupi: Allegations of police brutality have once again triggered public outrage in coastal Karnataka, with a young woman accusing Udupi police of assault during a pre-dawn raid in Brahmavar taluk. The incident has led to sharp reactions from the Billava community, which has demanded strict action against the officers involved and an impartial inquiry.

The alleged victim, Akshata Poojary, a resident of Uppoor village under the Brahmavar police station limits, is currently undergoing treatment at a government hospital. According to her complaint, police personnel arrived at her house around 4 am while searching for Ashik, a relative who has been absconding in connection with a compensation case ordered by a court.

The case dates back to 2014, when Ashik was allegedly involved in a bike accident that left Devaraj Suvarna seriously injured. A court later directed Ashik to pay ₹25 lakh as compensation to the victim.

As the amount was not paid and Ashik allegedly went into hiding, police reportedly intensified their search. Acting on location inputs suggesting Ashik was at his grandmother’s house in Uppoor, the police conducted the early-morning operation.

Akshata has alleged that she was assaulted during the raid and claimed that the police acted illegally. She stated that no woman police personnel were present and that a court-appointed amin, whose presence is mandatory during such enforcement actions, did not accompany the police team.

“I was manhandled without justification,” she alleged, adding that the incident caused both physical injuries and mental trauma. The police, however, have denied the allegations. Officials maintain that the operation was conducted strictly as per court orders and asserted that a court amin was present during the raid.

They also claimed that the action was lawful and aimed solely at executing judicial directions. The incident has sparked strong protests from Billava community leaders and organisations. They accused the police of high-handedness and demanded the immediate suspension of the officers involved.

Community leaders have also insisted that an FIR be registered based on Akshata’s complaint and that disciplinary action be initiated against those found guilty. Superintendent of Police Hariram Shankar has assured that the matter will be examined thoroughly. “We will verify all facts and take appropriate action based on the findings,” he said.

As tensions simmer, community leaders have begun mobilising support, warning of intensified protests if justice is delayed. The case has once again raised serious questions about police conduct, accountability, and the protection of citizens’ rights during law enforcement operations.

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