Pramesh S Jain
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Friday came down heavily on police personnel involved in criminal activities, calling the participation of policemen in 88 criminal cases“an unpardonable offence”that brings disrepute not only to the police department but also to the state government.
Addressing the media after inaugurating the Annual Conference of Police Officers,the Chief Minister said, “When those entrusted with protecting society themselves indulge in crime,it is like the fence grazing the field.Such conduct is unacceptable.”
While acknowledging that several police stations are performing commendably,Siddaramaiah said laxity in certain stations has caused public hardship.
He pointed out that crime rates in Karnataka have been steadily declining since 2003 and noted that Kavithal Police Station in Raichur district has secured third place nationally for excellence.
Strict Vigil on Police Officers
The Chief Minister stressed that crimes cannot occur without the knowledge of officers ranging from Sub-Inspectors to senior ranks.
He directed police personnel to work with vigilance and integrity,protect vulnerable sections,and refrain from acting as instruments of influential individuals.
War on Drugs and Cybercrime
Although conventional crimes such as theft,robbery,and murder have declined,Siddaramaiah expressed concern over the rise in cybercrime and drug-related offences, stating that youth are being severely affected.
The government has declared its intent to make Karnataka a drug-free state,and the CM asserted that effective policing could dismantle drug networks and safeguard young people.
He instructed police to intensify interrogation of drug users and traffickers to trace suppliers and producers.
Foreign nationals involved in drug trafficking,he said, should be deported without leniency,as those released on bail often return to the same crimes.
Action Against Lapses
Taking a swipe at enforcement failures,Siddaramaiah questioned why Maharashtra Police could detect drug networks in Bengaluru while local police failed to do so. He ordered disciplinary action against officers responsible for such lapses.
He also called for stricter laws to tackle cybercrime and narcotics, indicating that new legislation or amendments may be introduced soon.
IPL,Bellary Incident,and Arrest Order
Responding to queries on the IPL,the CM said a committee headed by Justice D.Michael Cunha has been constituted,with a sub-committee under the Home Minister to implement both short- and long-term recommendations.
On the Bellary incident,Siddaramaiah said the case has been handed over to the CID and confirmed the suspension of the district SP for being absent from a sensitive area.Action will follow after the inquiry report.
He also stated that Congress leader Rajeev Gowda, accused of abusing a municipal commissioner in Shidlaghatta,will be arrested,asserting that “no one is above the law,irrespective of party affiliation.”
Home Minister Warns Against Cybercrime Hub Image
Meanwhile,Home Minister Dr.G.Parameshwara warned that Bengaluru must not become a hub for cybercrime and drug trafficking.
Addressing senior officers at the Police Headquarters, he said that despite continuous operations,cyber fraud and narcotics trade continue unabated, causing massive financial losses to innocent citizens.
He noted that Karnataka is the first state in the country to establish separate divisions for cybercrime and drug control, but said performance has fallen short of expectations.
The Home Minister also expressed concern over poor conviction rates in cases involving women, children,SC/ST communities,and honour killings,urging police to ensure justice rather than mere arrests.He assured full government support to technologically strengthen the police force..
