Daily Briefings, Coastal Patrolling, and Fake News Surveillance Among Key Measures
Bengaluru, May 10 – Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Saturday directed a series of stringent measures to curb illegal hoarding, black marketing, and communal misinformation amid the ongoing state crisis.Chairing a high-level meeting with officials from various departments, Siddaramaiah stressed the urgent need to monitor and act against those exploiting the situation by hoarding essential goods and driving up prices. “There should be continuous monitoring of illegal stockpiling and black market activities, and attempts to increase the price of goods unnecessarily should be prevented,” he said.
Daily Updates and Legal Action Against Communal Inciters
In a decisive move, the Chief Minister instructed all Deputy Commissioners (DCs) and Superintendents of Police (SPs) to hold daily press briefings until the crisis is under control. He also called for the preparation of a comprehensive list of individuals involved in inciting communal tensions or threatening national harmony, with the objective of initiating legal action against them.“All DCs and SPs should prepare a list of all those who are exploiting the situation to threaten the harmony of the country and the state, inciting communal sentiments, creating communal divisions, and conspiring to endanger the security of the country,” he said.
Strict Surveillance on Misinformation and Security Enhancements
Emphasizing the impact of misinformation, Siddaramaiah issued a stern warning against spreading fake news through media and social media platforms. “Be careful to avoid spreading fake news. Nothing is bigger than the law and order of the state. Give first priority to the protection of the people of the state,” he asserted.He directed officials to update surveillance lists of known communal offenders, initiate mock drills at key locations, and enforce strict security protocols at both the state and district levels.
Strengthening Intelligence and Civil Defence Systems
The Chief Minister called for a strengthened intelligence network, particularly at public service sites, and instructed the recruitment of civil defence volunteers across all districts. “Arrangements should be made for online registration, and security should be tightened along the coast. Continuous patrolling should be arranged at all important places,” he added.24x7 Emergency Support and Helplines
As part of emergency response measures, fire stations will remain on 24-hour standby, and help centers and helplines will be launched in every district to assist the public during the crisis period.The directives come amid growing concerns over public order and economic stability, with the government making it clear that no leniency will be shown towards those disrupting communal harmony or profiting from public distress.