Karnataka CM Urges Police to Instill Fear in Criminals While Ensuring Public Safety

Bengaluru, Jan 8 (NationPress) Karnataka's Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Wednesday urged law enforcement to instill a sense of fear among criminals while guaranteeing a fear-free space for the general populace. This statement came as Home Minister Parameshwara commended the police force, highlighting the reduction in crime rates within urban locales of the state.

While inaugurating newly built police stations and facilities in Chamarajpet, Cubbon Park, and High Grounds, along with new police housing complexes in Pulakeshinagar in Bengaluru, CM Siddaramaiah underscored the crucial role of the police force in maintaining peace and safety across the state.

The CM issued a strong caution against any collusion between police officials and the real estate mafia.

"The government will not condone any police officer aiding the real estate mafia under any circumstance. It is imperative to create a sense of fear among criminals while ensuring that ordinary citizens feel secure," he stated.

"With the state's population exceeding seven crore, it is the police department's duty to safeguard the lives, properties, and dignity of these individuals while fostering a safe and peaceful environment. The government is always prepared to provide the necessary resources and establish additional police stations to aid this endeavor," CM Siddaramaiah remarked.

The CM emphasized that order and tranquility in the state facilitate quicker development.

He encouraged the police to adopt a friendly approach and treat visitors to the police stations with respect and care.

"It is encouraging to see a decrease in crime rates across the state. However, if law enforcement becomes complacent, criminals will seize the opportunity to evade justice, which cannot be permitted," he cautioned.

Siddaramaiah pointed out that unemployment and a lack of opportunities often lead individuals to crime, while the urban real estate sector has been a contributing factor to the rise in criminal activity.

The CM also recognized the dedicated efforts of the police force, reaffirming the government's commitment to their welfare, and assured that the housing scheme for police personnel would continue.

Home Minister Parameshwara, speaking at the event, stated, "Karnataka's police force is regarded as one of the finest in the nation, effectively addressing numerous challenges.

“During Siddaramaiah's previous term as Chief Minister from 2013 to 2018, the department received substantial support and incentives. Upon reviewing police housing, we found it lacking in adequate facilities. Consequently, the police housing scheme was initiated to provide suitable accommodations. To date, 46 percent of the planned housing has been delivered, and the scheme will proceed as planned."

He mentioned that a request for increased funding had been submitted to the central government, which, if approved, would enhance facilities for police officers and staff.

He urged the police to intensify their efforts to deliver justice to the public, noting that urban crime rates have been on the decline.

Highlighting advancements in managing cybercrime, Parameshwara remarked, "We have implemented significant measures to combat cybercrime. Karnataka is the first state to appoint a DGP-level officer dedicated solely to the Cybercrime Division. Necessary steps are being taken to thwart data theft."

Parameshwara also stressed the importance of ensuring the safety of women and children in urban areas. Under the Nirbhaya Scheme, Rs 650 crore has been allocated for the installation of CCTV cameras in Bengaluru.

He commended the police force for their diligence in preventing any untoward incidents during New Year celebrations.

Reiterating the government's commitment to a Drug-Free Karnataka, he stated, "Drugs valued at hundreds of crores have been confiscated and destroyed. A special operation was initiated a month prior to New Year to combat drug trafficking, and this effort will persist."

The event was attended by Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, Energy Minister K.J. George, Chief Minister’s Political Secretary Dr. K. Govindaraju, MLA Rizwan Arshad, DGP Alok Mohan, Managing Director of the Karnataka Police Housing and Infrastructure Development Corporation K. Ramachandra Rao, and Bengaluru Police Commissioner B. Dayananda.