Bengaluru, Oct 28 (NationPress) In response to the BJP’s claims regarding the lack of law and order in the state, Karnataka Home Minister G. Parameshwara asserted that law and order has been maintained effectively in Karnataka.

The Karnataka State Police Department is recognized as one of the finest in the nation, and he expressed his pride in its operations.

He made these comments during the ‘Introduction and Distribution of Peak Caps for Police Personnel,’ the launch of the ‘Anti-Narcotics Task Force (ANTF),’ and the rollout of the ‘Sanmitra’ program at Vidhana Soudha's Banquet Hall in Bengaluru on Tuesday.

According to the India Justice Report, Karnataka Police ranks first nationwide based on various criteria such as conduct, justice delivery, and citizen services, he noted.

“Drugs represent a significant social challenge. The Chief Minister has proclaimed in the Assembly that Karnataka will strive to be a drug-free state. In this regard, the police have implemented numerous initiatives. Over the last two years, drugs valued at Rs 250 to Rs 300 crore have been confiscated and destroyed. Despite rigorous efforts, drugs continue to infiltrate the state through parcels and other avenues. To combat this issue effectively, the Anti-Narcotics Task Force has been formed,” he explained.

“Under the Sanmitra initiative, constables are deployed to monitor drug peddlers and addicts closely. The ‘Police at Every Doorstep’ program, initiated in the state, is progressing well. Gathering information from every household aids in addressing complaints promptly and curbing criminal activities,” he elaborated.

“For the first time nationwide, a DGP-rank officer has been appointed to lead the Narcotics Control Division. To combat atrocities against Scheduled Castes and Tribes, 33 DCRE police stations have been established throughout the state,” Parameshwara stated.

“The Police Department is a disciplined force and cannot be equated with other departments. It serves as the state’s vigilant eye. The reputation of any government hinges on its police force. Maintaining peace and order directly impacts the government’s image. We have not merely altered the cap; we have endeavored to instill confidence and pride among you,” he concluded.

“Historically, police uniforms were standardized during the British era, and upon independence, numerous reforms were introduced within the police system,” he noted.

“Back in the British period, police wore slouch hats. In 1953, the Armed Forces adopted a hat system, while regular police officers opted for turbans. In 1973, when D. Devaraj Urs was Chief Minister, slouch hats were introduced for our police. Since then, there has been no change. Our personnel have braved all conditions, good and bad,” the Home Minister remarked.

“Over the years, there have been multiple requests to redesign the cap due to its heaviness in rain and lack of visual appeal. Even in 2015, when I was the Home Minister, a proposal for change was made but could not be executed for various reasons,” he highlighted.

“This time, after in-depth discussions, senior department officials explored cap designs from other states and presented various options. The Chief Minister selected the blue cap, and on behalf of the department, I commend him. Today marks a historic occasion for the Police Department,” Parameshwara stated.

“Once the police personnel don the new cap, they appear more refined. It also fosters self-confidence—a belief that there is no hierarchy between officers and subordinates,” he added.

Regarding law and order, the Minister remarked, “In comparison to other states, Karnataka has remained predominantly peaceful. Over the past two years, there have been no communal riots or disturbing incidents. We have ensured that law and order remains intact, and the credit goes to our department personnel.”

“The state government has fostered a positive environment for the police department. We must continue to meet the expectations of the public and strive to transform Karnataka into a garden of peace,” he added.