Karwar – A controversy is brewing in the district as powerful vested interests, reportedly involved in running illegal gambling clubs, are allegedly lobbying to transfer Uttara Kannada Superintendent of Police (SP) M. Narayan, who has led a firm crackdown on such activities over the past year.
Soon after taking charge as SP, M. Narayan issued strict instructions to all police stations in the district to shut down unauthorized ispiit (card-based gambling) clubs that had mushroomed across the region. As a result, numerous gambling dens were closed, dealing a significant blow to the illegal trade.
Sources say that club operators, angered by the disruption to their lucrative operations, are now attempting to orchestrate the SP's transfer. These individuals have reportedly been pressuring local elected representatives to intervene, arguing that SP Narayan has completed a year in the district and should be moved.
To revive the gambling operations, the network is said to be using both political pressure and financial inducements to influence the transfer. Some individuals have even reportedly offered monetary support to facilitate the effort.
In a determined move to prevent the reopening of these clubs, SP Narayan had warned that any station staff permitting such activity would face disciplinary action. Police officers were seen enforcing the ban and sharing photos on social media, signaling a zero-tolerance policy.
Despite mounting pressure, SP Narayan has stood his ground. Reports indicate that some gambling interests even approached the courts seeking permission to reopen the clubs under the guise of "recreation centers." However, no legal relief has been granted so far.
Recently, rumors have begun circulating that SP Narayan will soon be transferred, though officials have dismissed these claims as false. The Home Department is reportedly aware of the developments and is monitoring the situation closely.
Concerned citizens have urged political leaders to protect upright officers from such pressures and ensure they are not arbitrarily transferred. Public sentiment strongly supports retaining officials like SP Narayan who act in the interest of law and order.