How is Odisha DGP Ensuring Rapid Investigations into Crimes Against Women?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Urgent need for swift investigations into crimes against women.
- Low conviction rate of 9.1% is a significant concern.
- Women are pivotal for the vision of a Viksit Odisha by 2036.
- Proactive measures include enhanced cyber patrolling and social media monitoring.
- Recognition of law enforcement officials for their successful convictions.
Bhubaneswar, Sep 10 (NationPress) The Director General of Police (DGP) in Odisha, YB Khurania, on Tuesday urged state police officials to accelerate investigations into serious crimes targeting women and ensure that the offenders face just consequences.
During the opening of a two-day state conference on Women's Safety, Khurania expressed that appalling incidents like gang rape across various districts are undermining women's morale in society.
He stated, 'Women in Odisha are the backbone of our community. Their contributions are commendable, yet they face threats such as rape, sexual harassment, domestic abuse, public harassment, and cybercrimes, which are alarming issues.'
Khurania encouraged Investigating Officers, Supervising Officers, and District Superintendents of Police to be vigilant and proactive in preventing crimes against women.
He emphasized that the core responsibility of Odisha Police is to safeguard the welfare of women and girls in the state.
Looking ahead, he remarked that women will be pivotal in achieving the vision of a Viksit Odisha by 2036. The Odisha Police aims to transform the state into a benchmark for women's safety across the nation.
Khurania called on all police personnel to unite and strive for a safer Odisha.
Expressing distress over the low conviction rates in crimes against women, DGP Khurania noted, 'The National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) indicates a mere 9.1% conviction rate in these cases, which is unacceptable.' He believes improvements can be made through quicker investigations, proper training, and a compassionate approach towards victims.
He mentioned that swift punishment for offenders can be achieved through existing laws, including Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita.
The DGP also mandated enhanced cyber patrolling and proactive social media monitoring to prevent the swift dissemination of sensitive images and videos involving women and children.
On this day, DGP Khurania also recognized District Superintendents of Police, Investigating Officers, Supervising Officers, and Public Prosecutors for achieving prompt and effective convictions in 13 cases.