The Karnataka State Police has ordered the immediate establishment of dedicated Anti-Rowdy Squads across the state as part of a major crackdown on rowdyism, organised crime and anti-social activities.
The directive was issued following deliberations held by Karnataka Chief Minister DK Shivakumar on June 4. The move aims to strengthen surveillance of rowdy elements, dismantle criminal networks and ensure stricter enforcement of preventive laws.
According to the circular, a dedicated “Rowdy Squad” will be constituted in every police circle under the supervision of the Circle Inspector. Police stations headed by a Police Inspector will also have separate station-level Anti-Rowdy Squads.
The composition of these squads will be decided by the concerned Sub-Divisional Police Officer (SDPO) or Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) based on local crime conditions and requirements.
The circular stated that curbing rowdy activities is essential for maintaining law and order, safeguarding citizens’ rights and ensuring a peaceful environment. It noted that the presence of rowdy elements creates fear among the public, disrupts social harmony and threatens community safety. The Chief Minister directed police authorities to take stringent measures to eradicate rowdyism across Karnataka.
The newly formed squads will verify criminal cases registered against individuals and initiate the opening of new rowdy sheets wherever applicable. The circular warned that lapses in performing this duty would attract disciplinary action against responsible officers.
The squads have been tasked with maintaining updated information on all rowdy sheeters and anti-social elements within their jurisdictions. They will conduct regular surveillance and verification of the activities, movements and associations of rowdy sheeters in accordance with the law.
The Anti-Rowdy Squads will also identify emerging rowdy elements, gangs and criminal groups, collect actionable intelligence, monitor repeat offenders affecting public peace and initiate preventive action under laws including the Goonda Act and the Karnataka Control of Organised Crimes Act (KCOCA).
They will ensure effective execution of warrants, bonds and other lawful proceedings against rowdy elements, maintain close coordination with beat staff and intelligence sources, and conduct special drives and surprise checks in vulnerable areas.
To ensure accountability, Circle Inspectors and Station House Officers will review the functioning of the squads every fortnight, while SDPOs and ACPs will assess their performance during monthly crime meetings. Unit heads have been directed to periodically review and update all rowdy sheets in accordance with the Karnataka Police Manual and existing instructions.
The circular also mandates the maintenance of a separate register documenting the activities and achievements of the squads. Monthly reports detailing surveillance conducted, preventive actions initiated, warrants executed, rowdy sheets reviewed, and other enforcement measures must be submitted through proper channels.
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Published By:
Akshat Trivedi
Published On:
Jun 7, 2026 22:12 IST
