ISD moots inter-state coordination mehcanism

Udupi: Karnataka is keen to set up an inter-state coordination mechanism to deal with complaints of persecution of fishermen from the state. At least 10-12 such cases are reported annually. Karnataka fishermen bear the brunt of perceived over zealousness of law-enforcement agencies in neighbouring states, especially Maharashtra, said Bhaskar Rao, additional director-general of police (internal security division).
Rao, who reviewed the functioning of various wings under ISD wing of Karnataka state police, including Coastal Security Police (CSP), Anti-Naxal Force, Karnataka Industrial Security Force, here on Tuesday, told TOI that fishermen leaders raised the issue of persecution by law enforcers whenever they inadvertently ventured into territorial waters of neighbouring states. “This issue can be amicably resolved by inter-state coordination,” Rao added.
The ISD will also actively pursue the long-pending demand of the fishermen community for a sea ambulance with the state government. The addition of this facility will come in handy for CSP to deal with drowning emergencies involving fishermen, Rao said, and lauded CSP personnel for coming to the aid of fishermen in recent instances of accidents involving fishing boats in the district.
CSP will be provided with jet skis to boost their shallow water rescue efforts, he said. CSP will also take a proactive stand against people found polluting the seas up to the limits where its jurisdiction extends both on land and on sea, Rao said. CSP will also take stringent action in area coming under its jurisdiction with other statutory enactments, including NDPS Act, IT Act in a concerted effort to go after drug peddlers operating in real and virtual words.