How Should Gangsters Be Handled? Punjab DGP Weighs In

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Officers empowered to confront gangsters.
- 87% conviction rate in drug cases.
- New 1,600 police positions created.
- Public input encouraged via Chatbot.
- Accountability enforced at all levels.
Chandigarh, Sep 30 (NationPress) The Director General of Police (DGP) of Punjab, Gaurav Yadav, announced on Tuesday that all officers have been granted a free hand to confront gangsters and anti-social individuals.
He emphasized, “Accountability will be enforced for every officer, from constables to the Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP), and any leniency regarding gangsters and drug issues will not be tolerated,” he cautioned.
During a virtual meeting focused on law and order with senior officers, including those at the rank of Station House Officer, DGP Yadav instructed them to formulate a comprehensive action plan in preparation for the upcoming festive season. He urged them to remain vigilant and dedicated to maintaining peace and safety for all citizens.
Senior officials, including Additional Director General of Police for the Anti-Gangster Task Force, Promod Ban, and ADGP (Counter Intelligence), Amit Prasad, also participated in the meeting.
Regarding drug enforcement, DGP Yadav commended the police force for their commendable efforts under the ‘Yudh Nashian Virudh’ anti-drug initiative, which has achieved an impressive 87 percent conviction rate in NDPS cases. He highlighted the importance of thorough investigations to trace the sources of drug consignments and apprehend the “big fish.” He mandated that seized mobile devices of infamous suppliers undergo forensic analysis to uncover networks and facilitate further arrests.
The DGP encouraged officials to utilize Section 64-A of the NDPS Act, which allows for the rehabilitation of drug users caught with minimal quantities of narcotics. He also praised the Safe Punjab anti-drug Chatbot, which has achieved a 33-35 percent conversion rate for first information reports (FIRs) and urged officers to treat public feedback seriously.
In addressing the pressing issue of staffing shortages, the DGP revealed that the government has created 1,600 new positions, including 150 Inspectors, 450 Sub-Inspectors, and 1,000 Assistant Sub-Inspectors, to be filled through promotions.
While assessing organized crime, DGP Gaurav Yadav instructed police personnel to identify and imprison associates of gangsters. “You have full backing and protection from the department. Tackle gangsters without fear,” he asserted.