Pramesh S Jain
Karnataka Chief Minister D.K.Shivakumar on Friday submitted a detailed memorandum to Union Home Minister Amit Shah seeking greater central assistance for strengthening the state’s security infrastructure, police modernisation,cybercrime prevention capabilities, and prison administration.
During a meeting held in New Delhi,the Chief Minister requested the Centre to expedite approvals and financial assistance for several key proposals aimed at enhancing the operational efficiency and technological capabilities of the Karnataka Police.
Among the major demands was the conferment of the prestigious President’s Colours on the Karnataka State Police.
The proposal,submitted to the Government of India on May 8, 2024, is currently under consideration.
The Chief Minister urged the Union Home Minister to facilitate early approval of the honour,which is regarded as one of the highest recognitions for a police force.
Shivakumar also sought approval for the establishment of two additional India Reserve Battalions (IRBs) in Vijayanagara and Ramanagara districts.
The state government has already submitted a proposal worth Rs.243.87 crore for the project and requested its early sanction.
To strengthen policing infrastructure, the Chief Minister requested approval of a Rs.280 crore proposal under the Assistance to States and Union Territories for Modernisation of Police (ASUMP) Scheme for setting up Command and Control Centres and advanced communication systems in four major cities across Karnataka.
The memorandum further sought the inclusion of police-related activities under Schedule VII of the Companies Act, 2013,enabling police departments to receive funding through Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives.
Highlighting the need for better training facilities, Shivakumar requested approval of a Rs.258.53 crore proposal for upgrading infrastructure at police training institutions in accordance with Bureau of Police Research and Development (BPR&D) guidelines.
The Chief Minister also urged the Centre to release Rs.20 crore during the 2025-26 financial year for prison modernisation projects,including the procurement of CCTV cameras, walkie-talkies,and other security equipment.
In addition,he requested an extension of the deadline for implementing Rule 52-A of the Central Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989,and sought the Union Home Minister’s intervention with the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways on the matter.
Another significant proposal relates to the upgradation of CCTV surveillance systems in police stations across Karnataka.
The state has submitted a proposal worth Rs.278.26 crore under the ASUMP scheme to enhance surveillance infrastructure in line with directions and discussions before the Supreme Court.
Addressing the growing threat of cybercrime,the Chief Minister informed the Union Home Minister about Karnataka’s plan to establish the Karnataka Cyber Crime Control and Coordination Unit (K4C) at an estimated cost of Rs.360 crore.
He said a detailed project report would be submitted shortly and sought the Centre’s support and approval for the initiative.
The proposals are aimed at strengthening Karnataka’s law enforcement capabilities,improving public safety, enhancing cybercrime response mechanisms, and modernising police and prison infrastructure across the state.
