Police begin enquiry against Ujwal Prabhu over alleged threat against journalist
Mangaluru
The Puttur town police have begun a preliminary enquiry into a complaint filed against Puttur-based realtor Ujwal Prabhu and others for allegedly spreading defamatory and provocative messages against a journalist on social media.
In a written response dated March 10, 2026, the Puttur City Police Station informed complainant and journalist Pradeep Kumar Shetty that the complaint submitted by him was classified as a non-cognisable complaint, meaning the police cannot directly register a criminal case without further examination. The police stated that a preliminary enquiry would be conducted first, after which appropriate legal action would be taken if warranted.
Allegations in complaint
Shetty, a news anchor with digital media platform Nikhara News, alleged that a series of defamatory and threatening messages were circulated against him following an interview he conducted with Ashok Rai, the MLA from Puttur.
According to the complaint, the interview aired on March 4 discussed key civic projects, including the proposed Underground Drainage (UGD) system and a Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) planned in Bedrala. Shetty claimed that Prabhu had been opposing the STP project and became angered after the interview highlighted the issue.
The complainant alleged that Prabhu posted a WhatsApp status message featuring his photograph, accusing him of harming the sanctity of a temple and warning people to be cautious about him. Shetty said the message falsely portrayed him as someone who blackmails respected members of society for money and attempted to provoke religious sentiments against him.
Alleged threats and circulation
Shetty further alleged that Prabhu repeatedly called him at night and sent voice notes threatening him. In one message, he was allegedly asked to come to Bedrala where “his men were waiting,” while another warning claimed that a group of about 60 people would come to his house or the Press Club if he did not comply.
The complaint also named Narendra S. Maniyani for allegedly posting the same message in a WhatsApp group titled “Puttur Real Estate and Friends” and Harish Balnadu for sharing it on Facebook.
Shetty has sought registration of an FIR and legal action under multiple provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), including sections related to promoting enmity, criminal intimidation and public mischief.
Police officials said the allegations will now be examined through a preliminary enquiry before deciding on further legal steps.