Mangaluru: Dakshina Kannada police have appealed to the public to remain calm and refrain from spreading rumours after an incident involving a technical fault in a lamination machine and damage to a document was allegedly given a communal colour.The incident began on Friday when a document was burnt due to a technical problem with a lamination machine. Police said the matter could have been resolved amicably or taken up before the police, a consumer forum or another appropriate legal authority. Instead, the customer allegedly turned aggressive towards a shop worker, leading to an altercation in which shop owner Akshatha also became involved.During the incident, Sudarshan Pai allegedly assaulted a person who was recording the proceedings on video. Police said available footage is being examined to establish the sequence of events and identify those involved.According to the police, some persons continued to behave aggressively even after Pai was taken into custody. Naushad was allegedly seen near the police vehicle, leaning inside it and apparently doing something. The circumstances surrounding his actions are being investigated. Pai’s father, who was also inside the vehicle, will be questioned. Police said his statement, along with video footage and other evidence, would help establish the facts.Pai has previous cases registered against him, including attempt to murder and drug-peddling cases. Naushad and Pai’s father have prior hurt cases linked to separate road-rage incidents. Two others who had gathered outside the shop also have one previous case each, police said.“The police cannot act merely on emotional demands, public pressure or social media narratives. Arrests and other legal action must be based on facts, admissible evidence and the requirements of law,” SP Arun K said.Responding to demands for the arrest of others present at the spot, police said action would be taken against anyone found to have committed an offence, irrespective of religion, community or social identity.Police also alleged that vested interests were attempting to portray the incident through a communal lens and create tension between communities. The public was urged not to believe rumours, unverified social media posts, inflammatory statements or misleading narratives. A peace committee meeting was held Sunday at the Puttur SDPO office.
