Bengaluru, April 2 (NationPress) Karnataka Home Minister G. Parameshwara underscored the importance of eradicating crime and drug-related activities within the state while prioritizing women's safety.

During the celebrations for the Police Flag Day and the Chief Minister's Medal Award Ceremony at the KSRP Parade Ground in Koramangala, Parameshwara highlighted the urgency of educating youths about the risks of drug abuse.

“The police department has successfully informed one million students and young people about the harmful effects of drugs. Karnataka Police have been performing commendably,” he remarked.

“The state has effectively rehabilitated Naxalites, rendering Karnataka a Naxal-free region. In Mangaluru, individuals implicated in the bank case were apprehended within 24 hours. Likewise, in Davangere, suspects linked to a robbery were detained, with gold jewelry valued in crores recovered,” he detailed.

Cybercrime poses a significant challenge nationwide, with Karnataka recording nearly 20,000 cases annually. “As Bengaluru is an IT hub with extensive Internet connectivity, cybercrimes are increasing. We are implementing measures to combat this issue and must enhance our efforts,” he asserted.

“Peace must prevail in Bengaluru as it will lead to increased investments, enhanced economic conditions, and expanded job opportunities,” he emphasized.

He acknowledged that the police force has upheld law and order while ensuring public safety. “Those who provoke communal tensions are being controlled. Karnataka’s police force must endeavor to become the most efficient and trustworthy in the nation,” he noted.

Parameshwara stressed the modernization, reinforcement, and welfare of the police department as vital priorities. “The Chief Minister has initiated several schemes in this regard. Our department must work diligently to tackle challenges,” he stated.

The Minister commended the launch of the 'Astram' application by the Bengaluru Traffic Management Centre, which has received national acclaim.

He also mentioned that housing projects for police officers and personnel are underway under the Chief Minister’s initiative, with 60% of the work already completed. “In the recent budget, the police housing scheme has been extended for another five years,” he announced.

He encouraged police officers and personnel to continue their work with integrity and dedication, ensuring they become eligible for the Chief Minister’s Medal in the future.

“Today, we remember and honor the officers and personnel who have selflessly served, worked tirelessly, and even made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. April 2 is a notable day for the police department. The Flag Day celebration has been observed on this date since the Karnataka Police Act was enacted in 1955. I extend my special greetings to all officers and personnel on this occasion,” he concluded.

After the event, Parameshwara spoke to the media, stating, “For the past two years, the CM’s medals for state police officers who provided distinguished service were not awarded due to various reasons, including elections. This time, CM Siddaramaiah personally distributed the medals.”

“We have presented the CM’s medals to police officers for the years 2022, 2023, and 2024. This program brings honor to the department. From next year onward, barring elections, we will ensure timely distribution of CM’s medals to deserving police personnel in acknowledgment of their selfless service. This initiative aims to motivate them,” Parameshwara added.

On the topic of the Waqf Amendment Bill being discussed in Parliament, Parameshwara commented that AICC leaders have already expressed their views on the matter. “The proposed Waqf Bill requires several amendments and is not widely accepted. There is opposition across the country, and even members of the Muslim community have not endorsed it. In this context, our party members will oppose the bill,” he declared.

When asked about CM Siddaramaiah’s visit to Delhi, he responded, “Are you implying that a visit from CM Siddaramaiah to New Delhi would lead to a change of leadership in the state? Nothing of that nature is occurring.”