Police told to exercise restraint during festivals, avoid use of force

The State police headquarters has issued a directive to all field units across the State, instructing personnel to refrain from using force and to behave courteously with the public during fairs, festivals, and law-and-order duties.

The order comes following observations by the Karnataka State Human Rights Commission (KSHRC) in connection with a complaint related to an incident during a temple chariot festival in Doddaballapura in February 2025. According to the complaint, police personnel allegedly assaulted roadside vendors, used abusive language, and damaged their goods while clearing shops during the Sri Venkataramana Swamy Brahmarathotsava. The complainant sought action against the police officials who were involved in the incident.