Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi (SP)

Udupi, Jan 1: Dr Sanjeev M Patil was the superintendent of police (SP) of this district only for five months before he was transferred all of a sudden as deputy commissioner of police (administration), Bengaluru commisisonerate. Patil had taken several people-centric measures like 'SP Phone-in' programme in which he responded to problems faced by the people instantly. This programme, held every Saturday, had earned him lot of popularity.

The SP had worked to implement several suggestions given by people and had himself entered the field when found necessary to handle the situation including traffic chaos. He also gets credit for handling law and order situation during the historic 'Dharma Sansad' programme in the city without any hiccups.

The SP had taken hard steps against Matka business that has been thriving in the district and robbing poor families of their peace of mind. He had announced reward for giving concrete information about the main accused in Matka business, who is missing. He also had recommended for the externment of 11 trouble mongers from the district towards bringing down Matka business. Patil also had succeeded in nabbing inter-state robbers who had robbed gold ornaments worth one crore rupees when they were being taken from Mumbai to Kerala. He had also taken additional responsibility of handling the situation during disturbances following Paresh Mesta at Honnavar for 15 days.

Patil came to the district at a time when people were losing faith in police department after the departure of SP, Annamalai, who was known to be no-nonsense police officer.

People are curious to know reasons for his transfer even before he could complete six months of service in his capacity as SP here. Several have expressed suspicion that his ruthless action against Matka and other forms of gambling would have earned him the ire of the mighty and acted against his interests.

It is being expected that after the visit of chief minister, Siddaramaiah, to the town on January 8, deputy commissioner, Priyanka Mary Francis, will also be transferred.